›[I]to delay taking action or avoid giving an answer in order to have more time to make a decision or get an advantage: She says she'll give me the money next week but I think she's just stalling (for time).Delaying and wasting time›[T]If you stall a person, you delay them or prevent them from doing something for a period of time: I managed to stall him for a few days until I'd got enough money to pay back the loan.mainly USThe thief broke into the office while his accomplice stalled off the security guard.Delaying and wasting time›[I]to stop making progress: Japan's economic growth has stalled, with industrial production contracting in June for the fourth straight month.Economics and the state of the economy›[T]If you stall an event, you delay it or prevent it from making progress: Commandos stalled the enemy attack by destroying three bridges.Fears are growing that a tax increase may stall economic recovery.Delaying and wasting time