Motionless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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motionless
[ˈməʊʃ(ə)nləs ]
Definitions
describing lack of movement
Without any movement; still.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| motionless |
This word is often used to describe someone or something that is not moving at all, usually for a brief period. It can apply to both living beings and inanimate objects.
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| still |
Still is commonly used to describe calmness or lack of movement in a gentle or peaceful manner. It can also convey serenity.
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| immobile |
Immobile typically refers to an inability to move, whether due to injury, incapacity, or restriction. It often conveys a stronger sense of being unable to move.
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| stationary |
This word is best used to describe something that is not moving but could potentially move. It is often used in a more formal or technical sense.
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Examples of usage
- He sat motionless, staring out the window.
- The statue stood motionless in the park.
- The cat remained motionless, waiting for the perfect moment to pounce.
in the context of physics
The state of an object when it is not moving in any way.
Synonyms
immobility, stationarity, stillness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| motionless |
Used to describe something that is completely without movement, often in a dramatic or noticeable way.
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| stillness |
Best used to describe a peaceful or calm lack of movement, often with a positive or serene connotation.
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| immobility |
Typically used in more formal or medical contexts to describe the state of being unable to move, intentionally or due to a condition.
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| stationarity |
A more technical or formal term often used in scientific, engineering, or statistical contexts to describe the state of being stationary or not changing position.
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Examples of usage
- According to Newton's First Law of Motion, an object at rest will remain motionless unless acted upon by an external force.
- The car came to a sudden stop, leaving it motionless on the road.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, motionless refers to an object that is not changing its position relative to a reference point.
- A motionless object still has potential energy, which can be converted into kinetic energy when it moves.
Art
- Artistically, a motionless subject can often convey stillness and contemplation, enhancing emotional expression in works.
- Photographers often seek motionless subjects to capture the beauty in calm and serene moments.
Literature
- In literature, a motionless scene can create a sense of tension or anticipation, leading to significant plot developments.
- Many poets use the concept of being motionless to describe feelings of deep emotional introspection or loneliness.
Psychology
- Some studies suggest that when people are motionless, it can be linked to calmness or even meditation, fostering mental clarity.
- In stressful situations, staying motionless can be a physiological response, helping individuals process their environment.
Origin of 'motionless'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'motion', derived from Latin 'motio', meaning movement, with the suffix 'less' indicating absence.
- First used in the English language in the late 15th century to describe something that does not move.
The word 'motionless' originated from the combination of the word 'motion', meaning a change in position, and the suffix '-less', denoting the absence of something. It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century. Over time, 'motionless' has been used to describe situations or objects that lack movement or activity, emphasizing a sense of stillness or immobility.
See also: commotion, motionlessness.