logjam

noun

log·​jam ˈlȯg-ˌjam How to pronounce logjam (audio)
ˈläg-
Synonyms of logjamnext
1
: a jumble of logs jammed together in a watercourse
2
a
: deadlock, impasse
trying to break the logjam in negotiations
b
: blockage
c
: jam, crowd
logjam transitive verb

Synonyms of logjam

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Examples of logjam in a Sentence

He was called in to try to break the logjam in the negotiations. the presence of an ambulance on the side of the highway created a logjam of rubberneckers who just had to have a look
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Red Sox have a logjam of outfielders — all of them very good. — Zach Dean Outkick, FOXNews.com, 31 July 2026 Los Angeles is also looking to clear out a logjam of outfielders in their minor-league system. — Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 31 July 2026 The logjam in the Gulf eased in June after Washington and Tehran struck a preliminary peace deal, after which about 30 ships a day were able to move through the strait. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 27 July 2026 The 20-year-old wants to crack the Knicks’ roster, but a two-way contract might be most likely given the pre-existing backcourt logjam with Jalen Brunson, Jose Alvarado, Miles McBride and Kolek competing for minutes. — Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for logjam

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of logjam was in 1885

Rhymes for logjam

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Browse Nearby Words

log jack
logjam
logline
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Cite this Entry

“Logjam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/logjam. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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