stalled

American  

[stawld] / stɔld /

adjective

1. stuck or not moving; at a standstill.

   A spacewalk will be required to repair the stalled robotic arm on the space station's solar array.

   Intense storm systems along the stalled cold front have dropped heavy rains throughout the metro area.

2. (of a motor or vehicle) having come to a stop because of engine failure or a poor fuel mixture.

   Rain and sleet smack the surface of the lake as Jules fumbles with a stalled outboard motor.

3. (of an aircraft or airfoil) no longer generating lift due to an excessive angle of attack.

   At a sustained high angle the airfoil becomes useless, resulting in a stalled aircraft.

4. kept in a stall, a compartment usually intended for the accommodation of one animal.

   Our overwhelming first impression is of the piquant smell of sheep blending with the manure of the stalled oxen and a milk cow.

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verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of stall.

Etymology

Origin of stalled

stall ¹ ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

The 19-time Paralympic champion feels the sport has "stalled somewhat" since the London 2012 Games and that many areas "still need attention".

From BBC • Jul. 8, 2026

When my father died, my brother stalled indefinitely and, as far as I know, never filed for probate.

From MarketWatch • Jul. 7, 2026

After that, Trump plans to speak with Russian leader Vladimir Putin as Washington seeks to revive stalled peace efforts to end the four-year war.

From Barron's • Jul. 6, 2026

Advocates said they will continue to seek more support for child-care providers, which has stalled.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 1, 2026

My motor has stalled, so I get out the oars and try to close the distance.

From "The Young Man and the Sea" by Rodman Philbrick

Related Words

• frozen
• immobile
• inert
• lifeless
• paralyzed
• stagnant
• stationary
• steadfast