stillstand

1 of 2

noun

1
2
a
: an act or instance of stillstanding
represent minor stillstands locally preserved in the general emergence of the areaW. G. V. Bolchin
b
: stability
fairly long periods of stillstandC. A. Cotton
3
: an interval in the light cycle of a variable star when its brightness temporarily stops rising or falling and perhaps forms a secondary maximum or hump in the light curve

stillstand

2 of 2

intransitive verb

"
: to remain stationary with respect to sea level or with reference to the center of the earth
used of a continent, island, or other land area

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near stillstand

Cite this Entry

“Stillstand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stillstand. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!