Ennui: meaning, definitions and examples
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ennui
[ ɑːnˈwiː ]
Noun
Context #1 | Noun
feeling of boredom
Ennui is a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement. It is a state of weariness and dissatisfaction resulting from inactivity or lack of interest. Ennui can be described as a sense of tedium and lethargy.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I was overcome with ennui after spending the entire weekend alone at home.
- Her ennui was palpable as she stared out the window, longing for something to break the monotony.
- The ennui of the long summer days seemed never-ending.
- The ennui of their routine life was starting to take its toll on their relationship.
- His constant ennui led him to seek out new experiences to combat the boredom.
Etymology
The word 'ennui' originated in French in the 18th century, and it is derived from the Old French verb 'enuiier,' which means 'to annoy' or 'to bore.' The concept of ennui has been explored by philosophers and writers throughout history, often associated with a sense of existential boredom or melancholy.