stock-still

[ stok-stil ]

adjective

1. completely still; motionless.

stock-still

adverb

1. absolutely still; motionless

Word History and Origins

Origin of stock-still¹

First recorded in 1425–75, stock-still is from late Middle English stok still. See stock, still ¹

Example Sentences

Josie and Ivy were still standing stock-still on the sidewalk, staring at one another in shock, when Josie’s dad caught up with her.

From Literature

In the new study, three participants laid stock-still in an fMRI scanner for 15 sessions that totaled to 16 hours.

From Scientific American

Napolitano was so afraid of losing the connection that she stood stock-still in the tiny vestibule of her Park Slope apartment building, clutching her bag of trash, for the duration of the 27-minute call.

From New York Times

Her heart pounding, Violet stood stock-still, wondering if Count Olaf or one of his accomplices would come and investigate.

From Literature

Performers standing stock-still with elaborate costumes and painted skin on platforms set up in precarious spaces between tents.

From Literature