October 31, 2004
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leth·ar·gy
- A state of sluggishness, inactivity, and apathy.
- A state of unconsciousness resembling deep sleep.
Synonyms: lethargy, lassitude, torpor, torpidity, stupor, languor
These nouns refer to a deficiency in mental and physical alertness and activity. Lethargy is a state of sluggishness, drowsy dullness or apathy: The war roused the nation from its
lethargy. Lassitude
implies weariness or diminished energy such as might result from
physical or mental strain: “His anger had evaporated; he felt nothing
but utter lassitude”
(John Galsworthy).
Torpor and torpidity suggest the suspension of activity
characteristic of an animal in hibernation: “My calmness was the torpor
of despair” (Charles Brockden Brown).
Nothing could dispel the torpidity of the indifferent audience. Stupor
is often produced by the effects of alcohol or narcotics; it suggests a
benumbed or dazed state of mind:
“The huge height of the buildings… the hubbub and endless stir…
struck me into a kind of stupor of surprise” (Robert Louis Stevenson).
Languor is the indolence typical of one who is satiated by a life of luxury or pleasure: After the banquet, I was overcome by languor.
