stop

Transitive VerbIntransitive Verb[C/U] Both

pl: stopspast: stoppedpp: stoppeding: stopping

This word carries a sense of abruptness and finality. It suggests a hard boundary or a sudden termination of a process, often implying an external force or a conscious decision to halt progress immediately. In social interactions, it functions as a sharp command to cease a behavior, carrying a weight of authority or urgency. It differs from cease or desist by being far more direct and common in everyday spoken language, lacking the formal or legalistic tone of its synonyms.

Countable when referring to a physical location or a specific event, such as a bus stop or a sudden stop. Uncountable when referring to the general act of cessation.

Meanings

Transitive Verb

[someone][something]

To cause someone or something to cease moving or operating.

"The driver slammed on the brakes to stop the car."

Intransitive Verb

To come to an end or cease happening.

"The rain finally stopped around noon."

Noun

A place where a vehicle regularly stops.

"The bus stop is just around the corner."

Noun

An act of stopping or a device used to stop something.

"The sudden stop gave everyone whiplash."

Last Updated: May 27, 2026•Report an Error