stop

UK: stɒp | US: stɑːp

Definition

  1. v. to cease movement or action

  2. v. to prevent something from continuing

  3. n. a place where vehicles halt (e.g., bus stop)

  4. n. an act of stopping

Structure
stopp <to block>
Etymology

The word "stop" traces back to Old English stoppian, meaning "to block or plug," likely influenced by Vulgar Latin stuppāre (to stuff with tow). Over time, its meaning expanded from physical obstruction (e.g., stopping a leak) to halting motion or action. The noun form emerged later, reflecting places or instances of cessation (e.g., "bus stop").

Examples

  1. The traffic light turned red, forcing cars to stop.

  2. She tried to stop the child from running into the street.

  3. The hikers made a brief stop to rest.

  4. The singer’s sudden stop surprised the audience.

  5. Press this button to stop the machine.