fermarsi
/ferˈmarsi/
Definition
To stop moving or doing something; to come to a halt or stay in a place.
Example
Il treno si ferma qui per cinque minuti.
Show translation
The train stops here for five minutes.
Etymology
From Latin *firmare* ("to make firm, to steady"), derived from *firmus* ("firm, stable"). The reflexive suffix *-si* gives it the sense of stopping oneself. Cognates include French *fermer* (to close) and English "firm."
Cultural note
In Italian, *fermarsi* is also commonly used when inviting a guest to stay a while longer — "Fermati ancora un po'!" ("Stay a little longer!") — making it warmer and more social than a plain directional "stop." At bus and tram stops, you'll see signs reading *fermata*, the noun form, everywhere in Italian cities.