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Definition of stagnate

stagnate

/ˈstæɡ.neɪt/
stag · nate
Adverb:stagnantly
•
Adjective:stagnant
•
Past Simple:stagnated
•
Past Participle:stagnated
•
Present Participle:stagnating
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stagnate Lexical Profile

stagnate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To cease developing, progressing, or advancing; to become inactive, sluggish, or dull.

Example

"Without investment in new technology, the regional economy began to stagnate."

2

To cease flowing or moving and become foul, stale, or motionless (of water or air).

Example

"Floodwater left behind in low-lying ditches will quickly stagnate in the summer heat."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for stagnate

• Nearby Words

stagnancy
stagnant
stagnantly
stagnate
stagnation
stagy
staid

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from Latin stagnatus, the past participle of stagnare ('to form a pool of standing water'), derived from stagnum ('swamp, pond, or pool').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Stagnate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/stagnate
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