Still

Definition

The term "still" refers to the absence of movement, continuing without change, or yet, even so.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɪl/
• Respelling: STIL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɪl/
• Respelling: STIL

Etymology

The word "still" originates from Old English "stil," meaning "motionless, quiet," derived from Proto-Germanic "*stilli" and Proto-Indo-European "*stel-," meaning "to put, place, stand." Over time, it expanded to include meanings associated with continuity and silence.

Derivatives

• Stillness (noun)
• Stillly (adverb)
• Stillwater (noun)
• Stillborn (adjective)
• Distill (verb)

Synonyms

• Quiet
• Motionless
• Nevertheless

Antonyms

• Active
• Moving
• None

Usage

The term "still" is versatile, used to describe silence, continuity, or even persistence. For example: "The lake was still at dawn," or "She is still working on the project."

Related Terms

• Silent: Without sound or noise.
• Continuing: Persisting or ongoing.
• Nonetheless: Despite circumstances, still.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Motionless or stationary: Describes the absence of movement or activity.
  • Example: "The cat sat still, watching the bird."
• Quiet or calm: Refers to an absence of noise or disturbance.
  • Example: "The house was still after everyone went to bed."

Adverb

• Up to and including the present time: Indicates continuity.
  • Example: "She is still studying for her exams."
• Nevertheless or nonetheless: Used to emphasize persistence despite circumstances.
  • Example: "It was late, but they still decided to go out."

Noun

• A state of calm or quiet: Refers to silence or motionlessness.
  • Example: "The still of the night was peaceful."
• A distilling apparatus: Refers to equipment used to distill liquids.
  • Example: "The old still was used to produce whiskey."

Verb

• To calm or quiet: Refers to reducing noise or movement.
  • Example: "He tried to still the crying child."