backwater

Short definition from Wiktionary

Noun

1. 1
   The water held back by a dam or other obstruction.
2. 2
   A remote place: somewhere that remains unaffected by new events, progresses, ideas, etc; any field of endeavor that figuratively resembles such a place.
3. 3
   A rowing stroke in which the oar is pushed forward to stop the boat; see back water
4. 4
   Water used in the papermaking process. Recycled to reduce usage of fresh water, and usually containing residual amounts of chemicals and fibres.

Verb

1. 1
   To row or paddle a backwater stroke.
2. 2
   To vacillate on a long-held position.