any backward region that is isolated from the world and resists progress
a body of water that was created by a flood or tide or by being held or forced back by a dam; "the bayous and backwaters are breeding grounds for mosquitos"
a soft wet area of low-lying land that sinks underfoot
a difficulty or embarrassment that is hard to extricate yourself from; "the country is still trying to climb out of the mire left by its previous president"; "caught in the mire of poverty"
soil with mud, muck, or mire; "The child mucked up his shirt while playing ball in the garden"
cause to get stuck as if in a mire; "The mud mired our cart"
shut out from view or get in the way so as to hide from sight; "The thick curtain blocked the action on the stage"; "The trees obstruct my view of the mountains"
hinder or prevent the progress or accomplishment of; "His brother blocked him at every turn"