stopper
stopper Lexical Profile
stopper Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A plug or closure made of cork, glass, rubber, or plastic used for sealing the opening of a bottle, flask, sink, or pipe.
"The chemist carefully placed a glass stopper into the flask to prevent the volatile liquid from evaporating."
A person or thing that stops, blocks, or halts something, especially a defensive player in soccer or another team sport whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring.
"The veteran center-back proved to be a reliable stopper throughout the championship match."
In bridge and other card games, a high card capable of winning a trick and halting an opponent's run of a particular suit.
"Without a stopper in spades, she was reluctant to bid no-trump."
• verb
To seal, close, or plug a bottle, vessel, or opening with a stopper.
"After decanting the remaining wine into a smaller carafe, he stoppered it tightly and stored it in the cellar."
• Rhymes for stopper
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in Middle English in the 14th century, formed from the verb 'stop' (derived from Old English '-stoppian', meaning to plug up an opening) and the instrumental suffix '-er'.