Stop

Definition

Stop refers to the act of ceasing movement, activity, or progress. It can also describe a physical barrier or mechanism that halts or prevents movement.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɑp/
• Respelling: STAH-p

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɒp/
• Respelling: STOP

Etymology

The word "stop" originates from Old English "stoppian," meaning "to close or block," influenced by Middle Dutch "stoppen." It is related to Proto-Germanic "*stuppōną," which conveys the idea of blocking or halting.

Derivatives

• Stopped (adjective/verb)
• Stopping (verb)
• Stopper (noun)
• Unstoppable (adjective)
• Nonstop (adjective/adverb)

Synonyms

• Halt
• Cease
• Pause

Antonyms

• Start
• Continue
• Proceed

Usage

The word "stop" is commonly used to describe the action of halting or pausing, such as "Please stop the car." As a noun, it refers to a place where vehicles halt, such as a bus stop. It is also used metaphorically, such as "a full stop" in writing.

Related Terms

• Halt: A temporary or permanent cessation.
• Pause: A brief cessation or interruption.
• Barrier: A physical or metaphorical obstruction.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To cease movement or action: Refers to halting an ongoing activity.
  • Example: "The driver was asked to stop at the red light."
• To prevent or block movement: Describes impeding the progress of something.
  • Example: "He stopped the leak with a patch."
• To refrain from continuing: Indicates discontinuing a behavior or action.
  • Example: "You should stop worrying about the test."

Noun

• A place or point where movement ceases: Refers to a designated location where a vehicle halts.
  • Example: "The bus stop is right around the corner."
• A punctuation mark (period): Indicates the end of a sentence in writing.
  • Example: "The sentence ended with a full stop."
• A mechanical device that halts movement: Refers to a tool or mechanism used for stopping.
  • Example: "The door stop prevented it from slamming shut."