stonewaller
stonewaller Lexical Profile
stonewaller Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person who delays, obstructs, or refuses to cooperate or answer questions, especially during a negotiation, investigation, or interpersonal conflict.
"The committee grew frustrated with the witness, who proved to be a relentless stonewaller throughout the entire hearing."
British In cricket, a batter who plays purely defensively to protect the wicket and avoid getting out rather than attempting to score runs.
"Needing to survive the final session to salvage a draw, the captain sent in a seasoned stonewaller to wear down the bowlers."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 19th century from the compound verb 'stonewall' plus the agentive suffix '-er', originally describing either a defensive cricket batter or an Australian and New Zealand parliamentarian who obstructed legislation, and also reinforced by the nickname of Confederate General Thomas 'Stonewall' Jackson.