stagnation

noun

stag·​na·​tion stag-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce stagnation (audio)
Synonyms of stagnationnext
: a stagnant state or condition : a state or condition marked by lack of flow, movement, or development
In short, the increasing contamination and stagnation of the segment of river had become a matter of concern.Ryan Holifield and Nick Schuelke
In 1664, when plague had struck Amsterdam again, with the usual stagnation of trade that followed its worst attacks, the sight of a shooting star was taken as axiomatic confirmation of divine displeasure.Simon Schama

Examples of stagnation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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They are prepped to run the ball more frequently, or at least run it more effectively, in hopes that this solves the stagnation — rather than personnel shouldering the load. Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 1 May 2026 The result is a growing sense of stagnation across the workforce. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 29 Apr. 2026 After several years of stagnation in the housing market, home prices are actually declining slightly. Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026 Frequent cleaning and water changes prevent the stagnation while also encouraging birds to use the baths. Joan Morris, Mercury News, 27 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for stagnation

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stagnation was in 1644

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Cite this Entry

“Stagnation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stagnation. Accessed 6 May. 2026.

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