dictionary flame

from Jargon File (4.4.4, 14 Aug 2003)

dictionary flame
 n.

   [Usenet] An attempt to sidetrack a debate away from issues by
   insisting on meanings for key terms that presuppose a desired
   conclusion or smuggle in an implicit premise. A common tactic of
   people who prefer argument over definitions to disputes about reality.
   Compare {spelling flame}.

from The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (8 July 2008)

dictionary flame

   [{Usenet}] An attempt to sidetrack a debate away from issues
   by insisting on meanings for key terms that presuppose a
   desired conclusion or smuggle in an implicit premise.  A
   common tactic of people who prefer argument over definitions
   to disputes about reality.  Compare {spelling flame}.

   [{Jargon File}]

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