What is dead in the water?

"Dead in the water" is an idiom used to describe a situation, project, or plan that is not progressing and unlikely to succeed. The expression originates from nautical terminology, wherein a ship that is "dead in the water" has stopped moving, typically because it has lost propulsion or is otherwise incapacitated. This idiomatic use extends beyond maritime contexts to describe any stalled initiative in various aspects of life, including business, personal projects, or negotiations.

Additionally, "Dead in the Water" has been used as a title for various works in popular culture, including:

  1. Books and Films: There might be specific books, movies, or shows titled "Dead in the Water," often associated with mystery or thriller genres.

  2. Music: Several artists have songs with this title, potentially conveying themes of stagnation or existential struggle.

  3. Video Games: There are also games with this name, typically involving themes of survival or overcoming difficult odds.

Each context provides a unique take on the phrase, whether conveying literal immobility or metaphorically about halted progress or challenges. For specific works, further detail would be needed to provide more specific information.