Synonyms for

Stagnant

Verb / ˈstægnʌnt / Another word for stagnant — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Stagnant means not flowing or moving, often referring to water or air. It can also refer to something that is inactive or unchanging.

Synonyms & similar words

dead moribund still motionless static lifeless inactive stale dormant quiet sluggish dull dead stilted immobile fixed stationary stuck unchanging unmoving unvarying unprogressive

Synonyms by register

Formal

static dormant inactive unmoving

Informal

stuck dead bogged down going nowhere

Literary

sluggish lethargic moribund

Antonyms

active flowing moving dynamic energetic lively vigorous

Common collocations

  • stagnant water
  • stagnant economy
  • stagnant air
  • stagnant growth
  • stagnant period
  • stagnant pool
  • stagnant market

Word family

noun stagnation
verb stagnate
adjective stagnant
adverb stagnantly

Usage note

Often used to describe water, air, or economies that are not moving or developing. Can have negative connotations of decay or lack of progress.

Example sentences

  1. The air in the attic was hot and stagnant.
  2. The water in the pond was stagnant and full of algae.
  3. The economy has been stagnant for months.
  4. The old pond was stagnant and smelled terrible.
  5. The company's growth has been stagnant for years.

Quotes

  • In the stagnant water of a swamp, poisonous creatures multiply.
  • A stagnant life leads to a stagnant mind.
  • A stagnant pond breeds malaria.

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