To stop doing something, especially something unwanted or harmful.
From Latin 'desistere,' composed of 'de-' (from) and 'sistere' (to cause to stand), literally meaning 'to cause to stop standing' or cease action.
The phrase 'cease and desist' is so common in law that it's almost always written together—it's one of the most recognizable legal phrases because companies love sending threatening letters containing exactly these words.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.