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.