stuck

Stuck is an adjective used to describe a condition in which something cannot move or progress due to an obstruction, an interlock, or an inability to disengage. The term is used in physical contexts as well as metaphorical ones.

In the physical world, objects can become stuck when debris, mud, ice, or swelling prevents movement. Mechanical components can seize or jam, for example a door stuck due to swelling, a bolt galled by rust, or a vehicle stuck in mud.

In transportation and machinery, "stuck" can indicate a gear or linkage is blocked, a wheel is immobilized, or a component has failed to move as intended.

In everyday language, people may feel stuck when they cannot make progress on a task, or feel trapped in a situation or routine, known as being stuck in a rut. This sense can be mental or emotional rather than physical.

In computing, a process or thread may be described as stuck if it fails to proceed due to a deadlock or infinite loop, requiring intervention to resume operation.

Remedies depend on the cause: safely assessing the risk, freeing obstructions, applying lubrication where appropriate, and using proper tools. Avoid forcing components beyond safe limits; seek assistance for heavy constraints. In vehicles, reducing load, clearing the area, and using traction aids can help.