stagnant
UK: ˈstæɡnənt | US: ˈstæɡnənt
adj. (of water or air) not flowing or moving, often becoming foul or stale
adj. (of a situation or process) inactive, sluggish, or showing no progress
The word "stagnant" traces back to Latin stagnum, meaning a pool or swamp, where water lacks movement. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe inactivity or lack of progress in non-liquid contexts (e.g., economies, ideas). The suffix "-ant" reinforces its adjectival role, emphasizing a state of stillness.
The pond became stagnant after weeks without rain.
Stagnant air in the room made it hard to breathe.
The company’s growth was stagnant due to poor management.
Without innovation, the industry risks remaining stagnant.
Stagnant wages have frustrated employees for years.