PoliticsJuly 6, 2026
quagmire
/ˈkwæɡˌmaɪər/
Definition
A complex, difficult, or hazardous situation from which it is very hard to extricate oneself.
Etymology
Originating in the 16th century, the word combines 'quag' (a variant of 'quake') and 'mire' (swamp or bog). It originally referred literally to soft, boggy ground that gives way underfoot, before evolving metaphorically to describe difficult situations.
In the news
The word describes the legislative deadlock in Congress, where infighting over Trump's election bill has created a paralyzing situation that prevents progress on other priorities. It highlights how the administration's aggressive policy push has resulted in an intractable political standstill.
Trump Is Getting Tired of Losing Election Cases
Read the full article ↗The Atlantic