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The filibuster is a procedural tactic used in legislative bodies, most notably in the United States Senate, to delay or block a vote on a bill or other measure. The term originates from the Dutch word *vrijbuiter*, meaning "freebooter" or "pirate," reflecting the practice of "pirating" time on the floor to obstruct proceedings. In the U.S. Senate, a filibuster traditionally involves a senator (or group of senators) speaking continuously on the floor to prevent the Senate from taking action on a bill. Under Senate rules, this requires at least one senator to speak indefinitely unless the Senate invokes "cloture," a procedure that limits debate.

The filibuster is rooted in the Senate’s tradition of unlimited debate, established in the 18th century to encourage deliberation and prevent rushed legislation. However, over time, it has become a tool for minority parties to block measures they oppose. A filibuster can be ended only if 60 senators vote to invoke cloture, a threshold known as the "60-vote filibuster." This rule has been a subject of debate, with critics arguing it enables minority obstruction while supporters contend it protects minority rights and ensures careful consideration of legislation.

The filibuster has been used extensively in U.S. history, particularly during periods of partisan division. While the House of Representatives lacks a formal filibuster rule, it has informally employed similar tactics. Some reform efforts have proposed eliminating or modifying the filibuster to address concerns about legislative gridlock, though any changes require Senate approval. The filibuster remains a defining feature of Senate procedure, shaping how laws are debated and passed in the U.S. political system.