Definition
A procedural move to kill or postpone consideration of a matter, effectively shelving it indefinitely without having to vote against it directly. It's parliamentary cowardice disguised as procedural efficiency.
Example Usage
The committee voted to table the amendment, which everyone understood meant 'we hate this but don't want to say so on record.'
Origin
American legislative practice; confusingly means the opposite in British Parliament where 'tabling' means bringing up for discussion
Fun Fact
The motion to table is not debatable, making it the ultimate conversation-ender in parliamentary procedure and a favorite of chairs who've had enough of everyone's opinions.
Source: Parliamentary procedure manuals and Robert's Rules of Order
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “motion to table” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the Translator