Timefreeze

Timefreeze refers to the hypothetical ability or device to halt the passage of time within a region or for objects, creating a paused state relative to an external observer. It is a common trope in science fiction and is not supported by current physics. In physics, time does not stop; motion and aging continue in all frames, with relativistic effects described by time dilation rather than actual stoppage. Some theoretical discussions speculate about extreme conditions or hypothetical technologies that could dramatically suppress temporal progression, but no mechanism has been demonstrated.

In fiction, timefreeze devices often project a field that freezes dynamics within a boundary, allowing characters to act while the world remains motionless. Variants include selective time stopping for specific targets, or global time stasis with limitations on duration, energy, or collateral effects. Story uses include surveillance, escape, or analysis of paused events; consequences can include paradoxes or memory confusion.

Related terms include time dilation, stasis field, pause or time stop powers, and time crystals as a separate concept. The phrase timefreeze is also used in gaming as mechanics that temporarily halt or slow time for enemies, often with cooldowns.