Quicksand

/ˈkwɪkˌsænd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A deep, loose sand that can cause objects, including people, to sink or become trapped in it due to water saturation.

He struggled to free himself from the quicksand that had pulled him down.

A situation or condition that is difficult to escape from or resolve.

The company's financial mismanagement left it in a quicksand of debt.

A metaphor for a situation that becomes increasingly precarious or problematic.

Her lies became quicksand, pulling her deeper into trouble with every word.

Middle English quicksande, from quick ('alive, living') + sand.

in quicksand

In a difficult or precarious situation.

sinking in quicksand

Getting deeper into trouble or a problematic situation.

quicksilver

Mercury; anything that changes rapidly.

quicksand

A metaphor for trouble or difficulty.

A tricky or precarious situation.

After losing his job, John felt like he was in quicksand.

To be overwhelmed or trapped by problems.

With all the bills piling up, she felt like she was stuck in quicksand.