Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

congestion

American  
[kuhn-jes-chuhn] / kənˈdʒɛs tʃən /

noun

  1. overcrowding; clogging.

    severe traffic congestion.

  2. an excessive or abnormal accumulation of blood or other fluid in a body part or blood vessel.

    pulmonary congestion.


congestion British  
/ kənˈdʒɛstʃən /

noun

  1. the state of being overcrowded, esp with with traffic or people

  2. the state of being overloaded or clogged with blood

  3. the state of being blocked with mucus

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • noncongestion noun
  • precongestion noun
  • supercongestion noun

Etymology

Origin of congestion

From the Latin word congestiō, dating back to 1585–95. See congest, -ion

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

At the same time, snow and icy road conditions are causing traffic congestion and delays for inland transportation to and from terminals.

From The Wall Street Journal

For Slot, the focus post-match was on fixture congestion and the tiredness of his players.

From BBC

Airport crews began removing the 15 illuminated pylons from the entrance of Los Angeles International Airport last week as part of a plan to ease traffic congestion ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics.

From Los Angeles Times

Locals have complained of disrespectful tourists harassing the geisha in a frenzy for photos, as well as causing traffic congestion and littering.

From Barron's

The port handled last year’s cargo without congestion or backlogs, according to Hacegaba.

From Los Angeles Times