stagnation

noun

stag·​na·​tion stag-ˈnā-shən 

: a stagnant state or condition : a state or condition marked by lack of flow, movement, or development

In short, the increasing contamination and stagnation of the segment of river had become a matter of concern.

—Ryan Holifield and Nick Schuelke

In 1664, when plague had struck Amsterdam again, with the usual stagnation of trade that followed its worst attacks, the sight of a shooting star was taken as axiomatic confirmation of divine displeasure.

—Simon Schama

Examples of stagnation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Meanwhile, new data has revealed the stagnation or recession of women being hired or represented in production, both in front of and behind the camera. — Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 23 Sep. 2026

That stagnation is at the root of many of our relentless political fights. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 20 Sep. 2026

Both brands are owned by Chinese firm Geely, and Chinese automakers have been looking overseas to expand business as their own market has become oversaturated and is now showing signs of stagnation. — Adam Ismail, The Drive, 10 Sep. 2026

After years of stagnation and decline, Taiwan’s defense spending is finally increasing. — Holmes Liao, Foreign Affairs, 4 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for stagnation

• ablation
• aeration
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation