lethargy

American  

[leth-er-jee] / ˈlɛθ ər dʒi /

noun

plural

lethargies

1. the quality or state of being drowsy and dull, listless and unenergetic, or indifferent and lazy; apathetic or sluggish inactivity.

2. Pathology. an abnormal state or disorder characterized by overpowering drowsiness or sleep.

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lethargy British  

/ ˈlɛθədʒɪ, lɪˈθɑːdʒɪk /

noun

1. sluggishness, slowness, or dullness

2. an abnormal lack of energy, esp as the result of a disease

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Other Word Forms

• hyperlethargy noun
• lethargic adjective
• lethargically adverb

Etymology

Origin of lethargy

First recorded in 1325–75; from Late Latin lēthargia, from Greek lēthargía, equivalent to lḗtharg(os) “drowsy” + -ia -y ³ ( Lethe, -algia ); replacing Middle English litargie, from Medieval Latin litargīa, from Late Greek, Greek, as above

Example Sentences

“Following the disappointing market reception of Nvidia’s stronger than projected results and outlook, the Street was poised for Broadcom’s shares to react with similar lethargy,” wrote Benchmark Research analyst Cody Acree in a research note.

From Barron's

There was a lethargy to Newcastle and you do not have to look too far to realise where the issues are for this leaky side.

From BBC

Carrick's men paid for their lethargy five minutes into the second half.

From Barron's

It turned away and began to slip down a different branch, but there was a decided lethargy in its movement, and I saw a bulge halfway along its body as its coils unfurled.

From Literature

Like most of the countries where Christianity first took hold, wars and economic lethargy — not to mention a relatively easier path to emigration — have dwindled Lebanon’s Christian population over the decades.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• apathy
• disinterest
• drowsiness
• inactivity