a standstill

a standstill

A period in which something is stopped or halted. The speeding police car, with its flashing lights and siren, brought all the other drivers to a standstill Our research came to a standstill after a sudden reduction in funding.See also: standstill

stand still

A command for one to stop moving. Stand still so I can look at your cut. Stand still! Quit squirming!See also: stand, still