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Synonyms

standstill

American  
[stand-stil] / ˈstændˌstɪl /

noun

  1. a state of cessation of movement or action; halt; stop.

    The ball rolled to a standstill.
standstill British  
/ ˈstændˌstɪl /

noun

  1. a complete cessation of movement; stop; halt

    the car came to a standstill
"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
standstill Idioms  

  1. see come to a halt (standstill).

Etymology

Origin of standstill

First recorded in 1695–1705; noun use of verb phrase stand still

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.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for 20% of global oil, is effectively closed, with transit slowing to a near standstill.

From Barron's

Trade and diplomatic relations almost came to a standstill as both sides expelled each other's diplomats and cancelled visa services.

From BBC

In New York, a travel ban brought the city of over 8 million to a near standstill before it was lifted at noon local time.

From BBC

Suddenly, the Nissan's engine failed, lost power, and came to a standstill.

From BBC

In rockpools, starfish, limpets and other wildlife were smothered - while Pembrokeshire's fishing industry was brought to a standstill for more than 18 months.

From BBC

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

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.