A "stay" is a legal term that refers to a court order that temporarily halts a legal proceeding or the enforcement of a judgment. This can occur in various situations, such as when a party appeals a decision and requests a stay to prevent the ruling from taking effect while the appeal is considered. Stays can help maintain the status quo and prevent potential harm during the legal process. In addition to legal contexts, the term "stay" can also refer to a period of residence in a particular place, such as a hotel or vacation rental. For example, a person might enjoy a stay at a resort for relaxation and leisure. In both cases, the concept of a stay involves a temporary pause or halt, whether in legal matters or personal travel.