Stalemate (noun)

1. A situation in which neither side in a contest, dispute, or negotiation can achieve a victory or progress.
2. A situation in which no progress can be made because of a deadlock or impasse.
3. A situation in chess in which a player is not in check but has no legal move.

Origin:

From middle english stele mate, from old english stæle "theft" + mate "checkmate".

Examples:

1. The negotiations reached a stalemate and no agreement was made.
2. The two sides were at a stalemate, neither willing to make concessions.
3. The chess game ended in a stalemate.
4. The company and union reached a stalemate in their contract talks.
5. The stalemate lasted for several weeks.