BusinessAugust 16, 2026
flatlining
FLAT-ly-ning
Definition
Remaining at a constant level without showing any significant growth, progress, or improvement.
Etymology
Derived from the phrase 'flatline,' referring to the straight horizontal line on an electrocardiogram monitor indicating the cessation of a heartbeat. It entered metaphorical use to describe any trend or performance that ceases to show movement or growth.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe the UK economy's productivity, suggesting that it was not stagnant or stuck at zero growth as previously assumed.
A positive new report raises the question: was Reeves undermined by dodgy data?
Read the full article ↗The Guardian