Meaning & Definition of word "Stagnant"

Stagnant

/ˈstæɡ.nənt/

adjective:

  • 1. not flowing or moving; stale or foul from standing still.
    • Example: The stagnant water in the pond was filled with algae and mosquitoes.
  • 2. showing little or no growth or activity; inactive.
    • Example: The company's stagnant sales figures raised concerns among the investors.
  • 3. lacking vitality or freshness; dull.
    • Example: 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.

Related Words

stagnation:

The condition of being stagnant; a period of inactivity.

stagnate:

To cease developing; to become stagnant.

Slang Meanings of stagnant

Meaning: Stuck in a rut

Example Sentence: He's been stuck in a rut, doing the same job for years without any change.

Meaning: In a funk

Example Sentence: She's been in a funk lately, not progressing in her projects.