Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Stalemate \Stale"mate`\, n. (Chess)
   The position of the king when he can not move without being
   placed on check and there is no other piece which can be
   moved.

Stalemate \Stale"mate`\, v. t. (Chess)
   To subject to a stalemate; hence, to bring to a stand.

Source : WordNet®

stalemate
     n 1: a situation in which no progress can be made or no
          advancement is possible; "reached an impasse on the
          negotiations" [syn: {deadlock}, {dead end}, {impasse}, {standstill}]
     2: drawing position in chess: any of a player's possible moves
        would place his king in check
     v : subject to a stalemate