QUAGMIRE Meaning and
Definition
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Quagmire is a noun that refers to a soft, wet, and muddy area of ground that is difficult to walk on. The term is commonly used metaphorically to describe a complicated, confusing, or difficult situation that is challenging to escape or resolve.
In a literal sense, a quagmire usually occurs in low-lying, poorly drained land, often involving marshes, bogs, or swampy areas. It is characterized by its waterlogged state, which makes it treacherous for people to traverse. The ground tends to be unstable, with a tendency to sink or become stuck due to the excessive moisture. Consequently, it poses a physical hazard, demanding cautious navigation.
When quagmire is applied figuratively, it describes a complex or perplexing situation wherein individuals become entangled or trapped. This metaphorical interpretation alludes to the difficulty of finding a solution or a way out. Such a predicament may be characterized by confusion, lack of progress, or entrapment. Additionally, quagmire suggests that the efforts made to resolve the situation may actually worsen it, akin to a person struggling further when trying to escape a literal quagmire.
Overall, the word quagmire captures both the physical challenge of navigating through a muddy marsh and the metaphorical complexities of a difficult or confusing situation.
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Wet boggy land firm enough on the surface to be walked on, but which yields or trembles under the feet at every step; a shaking marsh; boggy ground very muddy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for QUAGMIRE
Etymology of QUAGMIRE
The word "quagmire" comes from the combination of two Middle English words: "quag" and "mire".
The term "quag" originally derived from the Old English word "cwacian" meaning "to shake". It later evolved into "quak" and eventually became "quag". This word referred to a marshy or boggy area that was unstable, often shaking or trembling when walked upon.
The word "mire" has its roots in the Old Norse word "mýrr", which means "bog" or "marsh". It later entered the Middle English language as "myre", referring to a soft, wet, and muddy ground.
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