stoppage
UK: ˈstɒpɪdʒ | US: ˈstɑːpɪdʒ
n. the act of stopping or the state of being stopped
n. an instance where work or activity ceases, often due to protest or dispute
n. (sports) a defensive play that halts the opponent's advance
The word "stoppage" combines the verb "stop," derived from Old English stoppian (to block or close an opening), with the suffix "-age," borrowed from Old French -age (denoting action or result). The suffix traces back to Latin -aticum, used to form nouns of process or state. Originally applied to physical obstruction (e.g., stopping a leak), the term expanded to abstract halts (e.g., work stoppages) by the 19th century, reflecting industrialization's labor disputes.
The stoppage of the assembly line caused significant production delays.
Workers announced a 24-hour stoppage to demand better wages.
The goalkeeper’s quick reaction prevented a stoppage in play.
A sudden stoppage of blood flow can lead to serious health issues.
The contract includes clauses for compensation during unforeseen stoppages.