Stops - Definition and Overview

The word stop, when used alone, has several possible meanings in the English language.

The term "stop", when used by itself, can refer to:

• A stop is an incorrect name for the punctuation mark correctly known as a full stop or a period: "."
• A stop consonant in phonology or linguistics
• Any of the characteristic sounds available from a pipe organ or the knob used to select them; see organ stop
• An error in Windows NT or NT-based operating systems. See blue screen of death.

"Stop" is also a part of the name of:

• bus stop: a place where the bus stops for people to get on and off
• door stop: a wedge to stop a door from closing when you want it open
• f stop: a measure of the amount of light through the aperture that hits film in a camera.
• stop sign: a traffic sign informing drivers to make a temporary stop.
• In Technical analysis, a Stop loss order executes a trade based on the action of the securities prices themselves.
• Terry stop: in U.S. law, a stop-and-frisk law enforcement procedure less intrusive than an arrest, so probable cause is not required
• truck stop: an eating establishment on a major trucking route with a large carpark for truck drivers to stop and refresh themselves, and often with other amenities available.