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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The American consumer, who accounts for about 70% of GDP, continues to buy stuff, but many are stressed by energy prices, wage stagnation, rising interest rates, and an affordability crisis in everything from health care to housing. — Diane Brady, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026 After all, Wikipedia’s stagnation also coincided with the rise of social media, which Cooke hardly mentions. — Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 21 Oct. 2026 This structural deficit tends to stall innovation, leaving the enterprise vulnerable to competitive stagnation. — Syed Ahmad, Forbes.com, 20 Oct. 2026 Many countries are too unstable, underdeveloped, or corrupt to attract foreign capital and will likely stay trapped in stagnation. — Jared Cohen, Foreign Affairs, 7 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 2026.

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