Agency Dictionary

Stagnation

nounPronunciation: /stæɡˈneɪ.ʃən/

Economics & Finance

What does “Stagnation” mean?

A state of inactivity, sluggishness, or lack of growth in an economy or commercial system.

Etymology

Formed in English from the verb stagnate and the suffix -ation. Stagnate comes from Latin stagnare, said of water that gathers into a pool and stands still, from stagnum, "standing water, pond, swamp". The image of water that does not flow was carried over to trade, economies and minds that stop moving or growing.

Usage note

In economics the word describes a long period of little or no growth; combined with inflation it gave the blend stagflation.

Synonyms

standstill
inertia
stasis
slump
torpor
sluggishness

Often confused with

recession: A recession is a period in which the economy shrinks; stagnation is a period in which it barely grows.

Word family

stagnate
stagnant
stagnancy
stagnantly

Rhymes with

nation
station
creation
foundation
inflation
vacation
relation
education

Usage examples

This may suggest deflationary pressures, which, if persistent, can lead to reduced consumer spending, lower business investment, and economic stagnation.

Concepts

Source editions

Where this entry comes from in the Agency editorial.

Issue.7 - Economy in Crisis Pt.1March 16, 2023Read the edition

Words of the same theme

Consumernoun: An individual or group that acquires, purchases, or consumes physical or commercial goods and services for personal use. In marketing, consumers are studied for purchasing patterns and brand preferences.
brokeragenoun: The business, activity, or fee of a licensed broker who facilitates commercial transactions between buyers and sellers.
cinnamonnoun: An aromatic spice obtained from the stripped inner bark of several tree species of the genus Cinnamomum.
commoditynoun: A basic primary good, agricultural staple, or raw material that is interchangeable with other goods of the same type.
Corporativismnoun: The defence of the interests of a business class or professional group above the general interest, and the culture built around it. The word also names a political and economic system organized through corporations of employers, workers and professions.
Deficitnoun: The amount by which a sum of money falls short of the required or expected amount, particularly when spending exceeds revenue.
denariusnoun: A standard silver coin in ancient Roman currency that served as the principal denomination of daily commerce and military pay.
fiat currencynoun: Government-issued legal tender not backed by a physical commodity such as gold or silver.
Incentivenoun: A motivating factor, reward, or condition that incites or encourages an individual or business to take action.

Also from these editions: terms

Agoranoun: A public open space in ancient Greek cities used for assemblies, commercial markets, and philosophical dialogue.
Bailoutnoun: An emergency provision of financial assistance to a failing company, bank, or economy to prevent insolvency.
Chitonnoun: A draped garment or tunic worn by men and women in ancient Greece, usually fastened at the shoulders by brooches.
Deflationaryadjective: Tending to cause or associated with a general and persistent decline in price levels across an economy.
Emporoinoun: Ancient Greek merchants or maritime traders who carried goods between different city-states and overseas ports.
Ephemeraladjective: Lasting for only a very brief period of time; fleeting, transitory, or impermanent in nature.
Eruditeadjective: Characterized by great knowledge, extensive learning, and scholarly cultivation across diverse disciplines.
Himationnoun: An outer garment consisting of a large rectangular mantle draped over the body, worn in ancient Greece.
Hydrianoun: An ancient Greek ceramic water vessel featuring three handles, used for carrying and pouring fresh water.
Oratorynoun: The formal skill, art, or practice of public speaking with eloquence, clarity, and persuasive power.
Volatilitynoun: The liability to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially in the market price of an asset or security.