What is the origin of the idiom "dead in the water" and when to use it?

The idiom "dead in the water" has its roots in the practical observation of a vessel that becomes motionless and essentially stuck, resembling a lifeless object floating on the water. This phrase is used in a range of contexts or occasions to describe situations where progress or success has ceased, or where there is a significant obstacle hindering any forward movement. It is commonly employed in business, politics, sports, and everyday conversations.