Definition

To stop developing or progressing; to remain unchanged or inactive.

Example

If you don't challenge yourself, your skills will stagnate over time.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I feel like my career might stagnate if I don't take any new challenges.

Yeah, that can happen if you stay in the same routine for too long.

Exactly! I want to keep growing and not let my skills stagnate.

That's a great mindset; trying new things can really help boost your confidence.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stagnate → It is formed from "stagnare" (meaning to stand still or to be stagnant) which comes from the Latin root "stagnus" (meaning standing water). The word describes the process of becoming inactive or not flowing, much like water that is not moving.

Memory Tip

Think of water that is 'standing still' — that's what stagnate means, to become inactive or not flow.

Visually Confused Words