Meaning of the word "stop dead in your tracks" in English

What does "stop dead in your tracks" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

stop dead in your tracks

US /stɑp dɛd ɪn jʊər træks/
UK /stɒp dɛd ɪn jɔː træks/
"stop dead in your tracks" picture

Idiom

to suddenly stop moving or doing something because of surprise or fear

Example:
The sudden loud noise made him stop dead in his tracks.
When she saw the snake, she stopped dead in her tracks.