logjam

noun

log·​jam ˈlȯg-ˌjam How to pronounce logjam (audio)
ˈläg-
Synonyms of logjamnext
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.
But that has so far failed to break the Washington logjam. Marcia Kramer, CBS News, 24 Mar. 2026 Yet, the logjam has not impacted screeners who work for private companies. Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 21 Mar. 2026 The additions of Stanley and Schenn have created a logjam on Buffalo’s blue line. Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 16 Mar. 2026 Removing the bridge will improve the flow of water on the Kankakee and lessen the need for crews to repeatedly remove logjams there. Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2026 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 1 Apr. 2026.

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