Other Word Forms
- hyperlethargic adjective
- lethargically adverb
- nonlethargic adjective
- nonlethargical adjective
- nonlethargically adverb
- unlethargic adjective
- unlethargical adjective
- unlethargically adverb
Etymology
Origin of lethargic
First recorded in 1350–1400; from Latin lēthargicus, from Greek lēthargikós; replacing Middle English litargik, from Medieval Latin litargicus ( lethargy, -ic )
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How does lethargic compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“If you rest too much, you just become lethargic,” the Pasadena sports icon said while handing out custom T-shirts to kids at his booth at the 2026 Black History Festival on Saturday.
From Los Angeles Times
That show is growing duller, and more lethargic and repetitive, by the day, like watching reruns of a canceled sitcom.
From Salon
"It was just a really lethargic performance in the first half, but the second half was everything I wanted to see."
From Barron's
Megan said Edward had gone from being lethargic as a baby to a cheeky, playful boy, who was "full of life" and "a real character".
From BBC
But never have I seen a team with so much potential and skill be so absolutely lethargic and unwatchable this season.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
