Lethargic

/ləˈθɑrdʒɪk/ adjective

Definition

Affected by lethargy; sluggish, drowsy, and lacking energy or enthusiasm. Characterized by inactivity and indifference.

Etymology

From Greek 'lethargikos' meaning 'forgetful,' from 'lethe' (forgetfulness) and 'argos' (idle). In Greek mythology, Lethe was the river of forgetfulness in Hades. The medical sense of drowsiness and sluggishness developed from the idea of being forgetful due to sleepiness.

Kelly Says

Remember the river Lethe in Greek mythology - souls drank from it to forget their past lives! Lethargic people are so drowsy and sluggish, it's like they've forgotten how to be energetic. Think 'let-har-gic' = 'let yourself be hardly active.'

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.