Meaning of slam on the brakes | Babel Free

Definitions

1. To press down hard on the brakes of a vehicle in order to make it stop suddenly.
   literally, slang
2. To abruptly halt any activity or progress, especially due to problems or financial reasons.
   figuratively, slang

Examples

“Driving 2-6-2 locomotive No. 4771 Green Arrow, Blunt suddenly noticed that the tunnel mouth was silhouetted in a dazzling white glare and that incendiary bombs were showering down in their hundreds, he slammed on all his brakes and brought his train to a stop just inside the tunnel.”

CEFR level