standstill

noun

stand·​still ˈstan(d)-ˌstil 

: a state characterized by absence of motion or of progress : stop

brought traffic to a standstill

Synonyms of standstill

• halt

Examples of standstill in a Sentence

The accident brought traffic to a standstill.

battled each other to a standstill

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite the biturbo and hugely powerful combustion engine, the Temerario’s traction from a standstill is incredible, like an EV. —James Morris, Forbes.com, 23 May 2026

Analysts say relief at the pump likely will not come until a resolution becomes clear over the conflict in Iran, which has left trade traffic in the Strait of Hormuz at a standstill. —Victor Jacobo, CBS News, 18 May 2026

Oil prices ticked higher on Monday afternoon, as negotiations between Washington and Tehran appeared to be at a standstill. —Hugh Leask, CNBC, 18 May 2026

The disruption of oil production and distribution in the Middle East has sent gas prices climbing stateside, and with peace talks at a standstill, initial data shows higher costs lingering into May. —Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1702, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing standstill

• crawl to a stop/standstill

Rhymes for standstill

• anthill
• backfill
• bluegill
• crossbill
• distil
• distill
• downhill
• dunghill
• foothill
• fulfil
• fulfill
• goodwill

Kids Definition

standstill

noun

stand·​still -ˌstil 

: a state marked by absence of motion or activity : stop

traffic was at a standstill

Medical Definition

standstill

noun

stand·​still ˈstand-ˌstil 

: a state characterized by absence of motion or of progress : arrest

cardiac standstill