1. a situation in which neither side in a conflict can gain an advantage or make progress
2. a tense confrontation between opposing groups, especially involving weapons

Examples

• The negotiations reached a standoff when neither side would compromise.
• Police surrounded the building during the armed standoff.
• The game ended in a 2-2 standoff after overtime.
• The political standoff lasted for weeks without resolution.
• The hostage standoff ended peacefully after six hours.
• Both teams were locked in a defensive standoff.
• The border dispute created a military standoff between the two countries.