What is a "filibuster" in the context of the U.S. Senate?

In the context of the U.S. Senate, a filibuster is a tactic used by a senator or a group of senators to prolong debate on a piece of legislation, effectively delaying or preventing a vote on that legislation. This is achieved by extending debate, which can occur as long as the senators choose to speak, thereby using their right to free speech as a means of obstructing the legislative process.

The filibuster is a significant tool in the Senate because it can be used to slow down or halt legislation that may not have enough support to pass, allowing minority interests to be heard and considered. It highlights the unique structure of the Senate, where extended debate is a procedural right, contrasting with other legislative bodies that may enforce stricter time limits on debates.

While other options may pertain to legislative processes, they do not accurately describe the function and implications of a filibuster, which is fundamentally tied to the deliberative nature of the Senate and its rules regarding debate and voting.