Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
tread-water
verb
/trɛd ˈwɔːtər/
Definition
To stay in one place while swimming by moving one’s legs and arms without advancing.
Examples
- While waiting for the next job opportunity, I felt like I was just treading water.
- During the meeting, he seemed to be treading water instead of offering solutions.
Meaning
Figuratively, it refers to maintaining a position or situation without making progress or achieving a goal.
Synonyms
- stay afloat
- maintain position
- mark time
