lethargic

Rarely le·thargi·cal

[luh-thahr-jik]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or affected with lethargy; drowsy; sluggish; apathetic.

   Synonyms: torpid, indolent, lazy

2. producing lethargy.

   The lethargic heat and humidity of the day made me want to do nothing but nap.

Other Word Forms

• lethargically adverb
• hyperlethargic adjective
• nonlethargic adjective
• nonlethargical adjective
• nonlethargically adverb
• unlethargic adjective
• unlethargical adjective
• unlethargically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of lethargic¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; from Latin lēthargicus, from Greek lēthargikós; replacing Middle English litargik, from Medieval Latin litargicus ( lethargy, -ic )

Example Sentences

The report described the system as "lethargic", with a backlog of 166,000 asylum cases and interviews often delayed for up to two years.

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For a team that cantered to the league title last season, Liverpool suddenly look vulnerable at the back, lethargic in midfield and toothless in attack.

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It would make her feel tired and lethargic, and she struggled with it for 10 years.

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But it was obvious something was off last spring when he played poorly in lethargic Nations League losses to Canada and Panama.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Anaplasmosis can make dogs feverish or lethargic, turn their nose up at food and lose weight, but many show no sign of illness at all.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• apathetic 
• dull 
• lackadaisical 
• laid-back 
• languid 
• listless 
• passive 
• sleepy