standstill

noun

stand·​still ˈstan(d)-ˌstil How to pronounce standstill (audio)
: a state characterized by absence of motion or of progress : stop
brought traffic to a standstill

Examples of standstill in a Sentence

The accident brought traffic to a standstill. battled each other to a standstill
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Known for notorious traffic, several thoroughfares in Los Angeles slowed to a standstill as large plumes of smoke from the roaring blazes billowed into the sky. Christopher Cann, USA TODAY, 8 Jan. 2025 The Cardinals’ efforts to trade Arenado are at a standstill, which has stalled their offseason plans. Katie Woo, The Athletic, 7 Jan. 2025 The New York Mets and free agent first baseman Pete Alonso appear to be at a standstill in negotiations. Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 6 Jan. 2025 During the first round of voting, House representatives weren't immediately able to come to a consensus on who to elect as House speaker, which would have put the congressional body at a standstill until a nominee could secure the majority of votes. Kyler Alvord, People.com, 3 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for standstill 

Word History

First Known Use

1702, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of standstill was in 1702

Dictionary Entries Near standstill

Cite this Entry

“Standstill.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/standstill. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

standstill

noun
stand·​still -ˌstil How to pronounce standstill (audio)
: a state marked by absence of motion or activity : stop
traffic was at a standstill

Medical Definition

standstill

noun
stand·​still ˈstand-ˌstil How to pronounce standstill (audio)
: a state characterized by absence of motion or of progress : arrest
cardiac standstill

More from Merriam-Webster on standstill

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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