standstill
noun
stand·still
ˈstan(d)-ˌstil 
: 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
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
Iran’s threats on ships in the Persian Gulf have brought exports from the oil-rich region to a near-standstill, sending energy prices soaring and giving Tehran significant leverage in talks with the US.
—Skylar Woodhouse, Fortune, 16 May 2026
The pipeline of prospective officers had slowed to a near standstill.
—Joy Lepola-Stewart, Baltimore Sun, 14 May 2026
The surprising trip to Cuba of the CIA director takes place amid tension between the two countries, at a moment diplomatic talks appear at a standstill.
—Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 14 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for standstill
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Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026
Iran’s threats on ships in the Persian Gulf have brought exports from the oil-rich region to a near-standstill, sending energy prices soaring and giving Tehran significant leverage in talks with the US.
—Skylar Woodhouse, Fortune, 16 May 2026
The pipeline of prospective officers had slowed to a near standstill.
—Joy Lepola-Stewart, Baltimore Sun, 14 May 2026
The surprising trip to Cuba of the CIA director takes place amid tension between the two countries, at a moment diplomatic talks appear at a standstill.
—Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 14 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for standstill
Cite this Entry
“Standstill.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/standstill. Accessed 21 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
Medical Definition
standstill
noun
stand·still
ˈstand-ˌstil
: a state characterized by absence of motion or of progress : arrest
cardiac standstill
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