logjam

noun

log·​jam ˈlȯg-ˌjam How to pronounce logjam (audio)
ˈläg-
1
: a jumble of logs jammed together in a watercourse
2
a
: deadlock, impasse
trying to break the logjam in negotiations
b
c
: jam, crowd
logjam transitive verb

Examples of logjam in a Sentence

He was called in to try to break the logjam in the negotiations. the presence of an ambulance on the side of the highway created a logjam of rubberneckers who just had to have a look
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The logjam has Hall pointing his finger at Democratic lawmakers who, in turn, have routinely blasted Hall as uncooperative. Clara Hendrickson, Freep.com, 7 Aug. 2025 That will create another logjam for manager Oli Marmol, who has had to juggle playing time all year. Katie Woo, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2025 According to the Associated Press, the floating logjam was created by large visitor numbers during the peak tourist season in Guiyang. Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 31 July 2025 The San Francisco 49ers and second-round pick Alfred Collins reached an agreement Wednesday night, possibly breaking the logjam. Sean Hammond, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for logjam

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of logjam was in 1885

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Logjam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/logjam. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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