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 This marks the second quarter of definitive growth for the PC market following nearly two years of stagnation and declining demand. Michael Kan, PCMAG, 10 July 2024 President Reagan led the nation during a time of high inflation and stagnation, reducing the perception of America as weak to one of domestic and international pride and strength. Sasha Hupka, The Arizona Republic, 9 July 2024 Under Conservative rule, the country endured a era of deep malaise and stagnation. Alexander Smith, NBC News, 6 July 2024 Many suspect so, considering the volatility, years of wage stagnation and sluggish growth under the Tories. Prarthana Prakash, Fortune, 5 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for stagnation 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'stagnation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 15 Jul. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!