Stopper: meaning, definitions and examples

This word has a different, less common usage in American English, where it sometimes refers to the goalkeeper, the last line of defense.

• The stopper made an incredible save to keep the team in the game.
• He's not just a stopper; he's the backbone of the team's defense.

A general term used for any player whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring. This term can apply to any defensive position, including full-backs and center backs.

• The defender made several crucial tackles throughout the match.
• As a defender, her job is to protect the goal and support the goalkeeper.

This term is used to describe a central defender who plays in the middle of the defense. It is commonly used in both British and American English, highlighting the player's position on the field.

• The center back played a crucial role in maintaining the team's defensive stability.
• They signed a new center back to strengthen their defense.

Similar to 'center back,' this term is used for a defender playing in the center of the defense. It can be used more generally and emphasizes the player's overall role rather than a specific position.

• He is one of the best central defenders in the league.
• The team's central defenders were able to hold off the attacking side.

Same as the first 'stopper' for bottles and similar containers, particularly when sealing or preventing spillage.

• The pharmacist used a stopper to prevent the liquid medicine from spilling
• After pouring the solution, he carefully closed the bottle with a stopper

Used to describe an object that is inserted into an opening to fill a hole or gap, often related to electrical outlets, sinks, or bathtubs. It has a neutral connotation.

• He inserted the plug into the electrical socket
• She pulled the plug to drain the water from the bathtub

Specifically refers to a stopper made from the bark of the cork oak tree, commonly used in wine bottles. It has a very specific usage and connotation.

• He removed the cork from the wine bottle with a corkscrew
• The manager used a cork to reseal the partially used bottle

Used in a broader sense to mean something that physically obstructs or hinders progress, movement, or passage. It can also be used metaphorically. The connotation can be neutral or negative.

• There was a block in the road due to construction work
• The software encountered a block in its processing

This word is a repeat and serves the same context as previously described.

• See examples for 'stopper' above

This word is useful in more formal or military contexts where stopping is abrupt and often involves movement or operations.

• The soldiers were ordered to halt at the checkpoint
• The construction project came to a sudden halt due to safety concerns

Apply this word when something is temporarily stopped or paused, especially involving communication or an ongoing process.

• Please do not interrupt me while I'm speaking
• The power outage interrupted our dinner preparations