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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In the world of franchising, where consistency and scalability are paramount, operational efficiency can mean the difference between stagnation and exponential growth. Gigi Schweikert, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025 Past experience with post-conflict reconstruction around the world shows that transparency and inclusivity in government decision-making are the best antidotes to corruption, economic stagnation, and other common maladies in recovering countries. Natasha Hall, Foreign Affairs, 27 May 2025 Nuclear power is poised to grow significantly as investment picks up around the world after a long period of stagnation, according to Goldman Sachs. Spencer Kimball, CNBC, 25 May 2025 At the time, the Wave were going through turmoil off the field and offensive stagnation on it. Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 May 2025 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 5 Jun. 2025.

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