from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Fabian \Fa"bi*an\, a. [L. Fabianus, Fabius, belonging to
Fabius.]
Of, pertaining to, or in the manner of, the Roman general,
Quintus Fabius Maximus Verrucosus; cautious; dilatory;
avoiding a decisive contest.
[1913 Webster]
{Fabian policy}, a policy like that of Fabius Maximus, who,
by carefully avoiding decisive contests, foiled Hannibal,
harassing his army by marches, countermarches, and
ambuscades; a policy of delays and cautions.
[1913 Webster]