Stationary: meaning, definitions and examples

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stationary

[ ˈsteɪʃənəri ]

^{Context #1}

office supplies

Not moving or not intended to be moved.

Synonyms

fixed, immobile, motionless, static, still

Examples of usage

He sat at his stationary desk for hours.
The stationary bike in the gym is broken.
They sell stationary items such as pens and notebooks.
The car was stationary at the red light.
The cat remained stationary, waiting for its prey.

^{Context #2}

writing paper

Writing paper and other office materials.

Synonyms

letter paper, stationery, writing materials, writing paper

Examples of usage

She bought some lovely stationary for her letter.
His stationary was personalized with his initials.
They offer a wide selection of stationary at the store.

Word origin

The word 'stationary' comes from the Latin word 'stationarius', meaning 'pertaining to a station'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe something that is not moving or intended to be moved. Over time, it has also come to refer to writing paper and office supplies. The spelling 'stationary' is often confused with 'stationery', which specifically refers to writing materials.