standstill

[stand-stil]

noun

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

   The ball rolled to a standstill.

standstill

/ ˈstændˌstɪl /

noun

1. a complete cessation of movement; stop; halt

   the car came to a standstill

Word History and Origins

Origin of standstill¹

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

Idioms and Phrases

see come to a halt (standstill).

Example Sentences

"With so many drivers across the Bee Network walking out at once, this will be a highly disruptive strike that will bring parts of Greater Manchester to a standstill."

From BBC

In Mexico City, the march brought traffic in the capital to a standstill, as the protest moved down the main thoroughfare.

From BBC

The aerial exchange follows US-led diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war, which so far remain at a standstill.

From BBC

The walkout, meant to deny Republicans the quorum needed to conduct legislative business and bring the House to a standstill, has also set off a possible national redistricting war.

From Salon

If lawmakers decide to bring the chambers to a standstill, a public messaging war would almost certainly ensue, drawing more attention and money to both sides’ cause.

From Salon

Related Words

• dead end 
• deadlock 
• impasse 
• stalemate