logjam

noun

log·​jam ˈlȯg-ˌjam How to pronounce logjam (audio)
ˈläg-
1
: a jumble of logs jammed together in a watercourse
2
a
: deadlock, impasse
trying to break the logjam in negotiations
b
c
: jam, crowd
logjam transitive verb

Examples of logjam in a Sentence

He was called in to try to break the logjam in the negotiations. the presence of an ambulance on the side of the highway created a logjam of rubberneckers who just had to have a look
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The key for Howard to get on the field is making a difference on special teams, given the logjam in the unit. Cameron Teague Robinson, New York Times, 30 May 2025 The logjam has created a severe student loan forgiveness delay for anyone relying on IDR or PSLF programs to cancel their debt after years of payments. Shahar Ziv, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 And logjams throughout the roster mean that Rice is difficult to slot in on defense without learning a new position, which is a difficult ask. Peter Chawaga, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025 The logjam at the position is returning — and Wright, ever the professional, is preparing for a change in role. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 5 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for logjam

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of logjam was in 1885

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Logjam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/logjam. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!