Fatigue: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in a medical or technical context to describe extreme tiredness, typically resulting from mental or physical exertion or illness. It is also used in various fields such as engineering to describe material stress.

• After running the marathon, she experienced severe fatigue.
• The metal beam failed due to fatigue over time.

This term implies complete weariness and is used when someone is extremely tired, both mentally and physically, often to the point of not being able to continue. It carries a more intense and sometimes negative connotation than 'tiredness.'

• He collapsed from exhaustion after working for 48 hours straight.
• By the end of the day, she was close to exhaustion.

This word often conveys a sense of being tired in a way that affects the spirit or morale, usually over a long period. It can suggest a deeper level of fatigue that includes mental or emotional fatigue.

• After weeks of continuous travel, he felt a deep weariness.
• Her weariness showed in her eyes after the difficult conversation.

A general term that describes a normal feeling of needing rest or sleep. It doesn't imply the severity that 'exhaustion' or 'fatigue' does, making it suitable for everyday situations.

• I feel a bit of tiredness after a long day at work.
• She couldn't concentrate due to her tiredness.

Often used to describe a state of extreme tiredness, typically resulting from hard work or effort. This term is also common in medical or technical contexts.

• After working a 12-hour shift, the nurse felt overwhelming fatigue.
• Soldiers in combat can experience severe fatigue.

Used to describe a severe depletion of energy or resources. Can be used in both physical and emotional contexts, often implying near-complete depletion.

• The marathon runner was completely exhausted after crossing the finish line.
• Trying to solve complex problems can exhaust one's mental energy.

Often used to describe a state of tiredness that also has an emotional or psychological aspect. It implies a sense of worn-out from continuous exertion or stress.

• He felt weary after days of dealing with constant pressure at work.
• Traveling for hours on end left her feeling weary.

A more casual way to describe becoming tired, usually due to repeated or prolonged activity. It's less intense than 'exhaust'.

• Walking around the city all day can easily tire you out.
• The children began to tire after hours of playing.