stagnation

noun

stag·​na·​tion stag-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce stagnation (audio)
: 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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This creates a self-perpetuating cycle where women either adapt to these masculine leadership norms or face career stagnation. Lindsey Darvin, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024 Waldinger points to psychoanalyst Erik Erikson’s concept of generativity versus stagnation in adult development. Renée Onque, CNBC, 20 Dec. 2024 Of course, should everything go well, the payoff stands to be huge for Netflix, which is constantly seeking to combat stagnation and market saturation. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024 Contrary to popular belief, aging does not bring mental stagnation. Jonathan Rauch, The Atlantic, 10 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near stagnation

Cite this Entry

“Stagnation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stagnation. Accessed 4 Jan. 2025.

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