rooted to the spot

Idioms

Not moving, especially owing to some strong emotion. For example, When the truck bore down on the dog, he was terrified and stood rooted to the spot. This idiom likens the roots of a plant to a strong feeling that keeps one from moving.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He tried to pull at Goose, but she was rooted to the spot, flattened against the dirt, so he lifted her in his arms and ran.

From Literature

There was little between them in the second set, until Keys broke for 5-3 with a devastating forehand return that left Pliskova rooted to the spot.

From Barron's

And yet, the stubborn defence was undone frustratingly easily as Dallinga's header went through Schmeichel from close range and the Denmark veteran was then rooted to the spot as Rowe's powerful shot flew over his head.

From BBC

The 25-year-old's incredible acrobatic effort was enough to earn a 1-0 win for his side in May and left opposition goalkeeper Ezequiel Centurion rooted to the spot.

From BBC

Captain Gallagher's strike was equally as impressive as he volleyed emphatically across the target to leave Alphonse Areola rooted to the spot.

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023