stationary
/ˈsteɪʃənri/not moving or capable of being moved
The train remained stationary for several minutes.
The train did not move for several minutes.
Often used to describe objects that are fixed in place or not in motion.
permanent or unchanging
The company's policies are stationary, rarely changing.
The company's policies are unchanging, rarely changing.
Can refer to things that remain the same over time.
Collocations
Synonyms
Antonyms
💡Pro Tip
Common Confusion
Remember that 'stationary' (no 'e') means not moving, while 'stationery' (with an 'e') refers to paper and writing materials.
📖Word Origin
From Old French 'stationnaire', from Latin 'stationarius', meaning 'pertaining to a station or fixed place'.
📝Usage Notes
Often confused with 'stationery' (writing materials). 'Stationary' refers to lack of movement, while 'stationery' refers to paper and writing supplies.