Meaning & Definition
adjective
not flowing or moving; stale or foul from standing still.
The stagnant water in the pond was filled with algae and mosquitoes.
showing little or no growth or activity; inactive.
The company's stagnant sales figures raised concerns among the investors.
lacking vitality or freshness; dull.
The stagnant atmosphere at the meeting made it difficult to generate new ideas.
Etymology
From Latin stagnare, meaning 'to stand still or become sluggish'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
stagnant water:
Water that is not flowing and often dirty or polluted.
stagnant economy:
An economy that is not growing or developing.
stagnant career:
A career that is not progressing or advancing.
Slang Meanings
Stuck in a rut
He's been stuck in a rut, doing the same job for years without any change.
In a funk
She's been in a funk lately, not progressing in her projects.