Bilging is a naval term that refers to the accumulation of water in the lowest part of a ship. In order to avoid damage to the ship, the bilge must be pumped out regularly. However, the term has also been used metaphorically to describe someone or something that is failing or producing unwanted results. Synonyms for bilging include floundering, foundering, sinking, failing, deteriorating, declining, and collapsing. These words can be used to describe a number of situations, including a failing business, a struggling relationship, or any situation where things are not going as planned.