standoff

/ˈstændˌɔf/

/ˈstændɒf/

Other forms: standoffs

A standoff happens when two people or groups can't move forward or proceed because of a disagreement, or when two teams have a tied score.

In chess, a stalemate is a kind of standoff—when there's no way for a player to move without putting herself in check. Another example of a standoff is when two governments are bargaining or negotiating but can't reach an agreement, and so make no progress. You might see protesters and police officers in a standoff, or witness friends argue about politics and reach a standoff, where neither one will change their mind.

Definitions of standoff

1. noun

   the finish of a contest in which the score is tied and the winner is undecided
   synonyms: draw, tie

   types:

   dead heat

   a tie in a race

   stalemate

   drawing position in chess: any of a player's possible moves would place his king in check

   type of:

   finish

   designated event that concludes a contest (especially a race)
2. noun

   the act of repulsing or repelling an attack; a successful defensive stand
   synonyms: repulsion

   type of:

   stand

   a defensive effort