How Do You Spell STOPPED COLD?

Pronunciation: [stˈɒpt kˈə͡ʊld] (IPA)

The phrase "stopped cold" is often heard in conversation and writing, referring to a sudden halt or complete cessation of activity or progress. In terms of spelling, the word "stopped" is pronounced /stɒpt/, with the stress on the first syllable. The consonant cluster "pt" can be difficult to pronounce for non-native speakers, as it requires a stop in the airflow from the mouth. However, with practice, it becomes easier to pronounce correctly. The adjective "cold" is pronounced /kəʊld/, with the stress on the first syllable.

STOPPED COLD Meaning and Definition

1. Stopped cold is an idiomatic expression that refers to an abrupt and sudden halt or interruption of an activity, process, or progress. The phrase implies an immediate and complete cessation, often occurring unexpectedly or forcefully. When something is stopped cold, it means that it is halted so suddenly and definitively that there is no gradual or partial slowdown, but rather a complete stoppage.

   This expression is commonly used to describe various situations, such as a sudden cessation of movement or progress in physical activities, like running, walking, or any other form of forward motion. It can also be applied to describe the immediate cessation of an ongoing process, such as a sudden stop in the operation of a machine or the abrupt interruption of an ongoing conversation.

   Moreover, stopped cold can be used metaphorically to describe the abrupt interruption of emotional, mental, or psychological processes. For example, one might experience a sudden and complete halt in their thoughts or emotions, where they go from actively participating in a conversation or activity to being completely withdrawn and unresponsive.

   Overall, stopped cold describes a sudden and complete cessation or interruption, conveying the idea that whatever was happening came to an instant, decisive stop without any warning or gradual deceleration.

Common Misspellings for STOPPED COLD

• atopped cold
• ztopped cold
• xtopped cold
• dtopped cold
• etopped cold
• wtopped cold
• sropped cold
• sfopped cold
• sgopped cold
• syopped cold
• s6opped cold
• s5opped cold
• stipped cold
• stkpped cold
• stlpped cold
• stppped cold
• st0pped cold
• st9pped cold
• stooped cold

Etymology of STOPPED COLD

The phrase "stopped cold" has its origins in the late 19th century and early 20th century.

The word "stopped" in this context means to halt, cease, or put an end to something. It comes from the Middle English word "stoppian" which means to block or obstruct, derived from the Old English word "stoppian" with the same meaning.

The word "cold" in this phrase signifies a sudden and complete halt, often with an implication of surprise or abruptness. The usage of "cold" here is idiomatic and is derived from the sense of a sudden loss of warmth or heat. It is likely influenced by phrases like "stopped dead in one's tracks" or "frozen in place".

Therefore, the phrase "stopped cold" originally meant to come to an immediate and complete standstill, as if frozen or blocked suddenly and unexpectedly.