stationary
UK/'steɪʃ(ə)n(ə)rɪ/US/'steiʃ(ә)nәri/
IELTSTOEFLGREA2
Definitions
adj.
Not moving; fixed in one place
静止的，固定不动的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedstationstand, set, place
+
-aryact, process, state
=stationary
From Latin stationarius 'belonging to a station' — a station is a place where you stand still. Stationary = standing in place, not moving. A stationary bike stays put while you pedal.
Usage Guide
Don't confuse with stationery (writing materials) — they sound identical. Memory hook: stationAry = stAnd still (with an A, like 'at rest'); stationEry = Envelopes and paper.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The car remained stationary at the red light.
- 2.
He exercises every morning on a stationary bike.
- 3.
A stationary front can bring days of steady rain.
Easily Confused
stationary vs stationery — stationary (with an a) = not moving; stationery (with an e) = writing paper and supplies. The a links to 'at rest / stand'; the e links to 'envelope.'