quagmire etymology

Etymology

The word "quagmire" comes from the Middle English word "quagmyre", which itself is derived from the Old English "cwacmiere". This Old English word is composed of two elements:

  • cwac - meaning "to quake" or "to shake"
  • miere - meaning "a bog" or "a marsh"

Meaning

A quagmire is a soft, wet, and boggy area of land that is difficult to walk or drive through. It is typically composed of a mixture of mud, water, and decaying organic matter. Quagmires are often found in low-lying areas, such as swamps, marshes, and floodplains.

Origin

The word "quagmire" has been used in English since the 12th century. It was originally used to describe a physical hazard, such as a bog or a marsh. However, over time, the word has also come to be used figuratively to describe a difficult or dangerous situation. For example, someone might describe a political situation as a "quagmire" if it is complex and difficult to resolve.

quagmire relate terms

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    Etymology Mire is derived from the Old English word myre meaning marsh bog or fen I

  • moss

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  • quag

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  • morass

    Etymology The word morass comes from the Old French word marais which likely derive

  • slack

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    Etymology marcescent adj from Latin marcescere meaning to wither or to wilt

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  • counterfeit

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  • harangue

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  • plagiarism

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  • oath

    Etymology The word oath comes from the Old English word að which means oath Thi