Meaning & Definition of word "Quagmire"
Quagmire
/ˈkwæɡ.maɪər/
noun:
- 1. A soft boggy area of land that gives way underfoot.
- Example: The hikers found themselves stuck in a quagmire after heavy rains had flooded the trail.
- 2. A complex or hazardous situation.
- Example: The negotiations had turned into a quagmire, with both sides unwilling to compromise.
- 3. A predicament from which extrication is difficult.
- Example: The company found itself in a legal quagmire due to unresolved contracts.
Etymology
●Originated from the early 17th century, from 'quag' + 'mire'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
in a quagmire:
In a difficult or complicated situation.
quagmire of bureaucracy:
A situation where official rules and procedures become overwhelmingly complex.
Related Words
mire:
An area of swampy or boggy ground.
morass:
A complicated or confused situation.
Slang Meanings of quagmire
Meaning: Stuck in a problem.
● Example Sentence: I'm in a total quagmire with this project, and I can't find a way out.
Meaning: Overwhelmed by conflict.
● Example Sentence: The team is in a quagmire over the budget cuts.