Idle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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idle
[ˈaɪdl ]
Definitions
state of being inactive
Not active or in use; without purpose or effect; pointless. Showing no activity; lazy.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| idle |
Used to describe someone or something that is not active or in use, but not necessarily in a negative way.
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| inactive |
Used to describe someone or something that is not moving, working, or being used. It can imply a lack of activity for a certain period.
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| lazy |
Used to describe someone who is unwilling to work or use effort. This has a negative connotation.
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| unproductive |
Used to describe something or someone that is not achieving much or not producing desired outcomes. This has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He spent his days in idle conversation.
- She felt guilty about her idle lifestyle.
- The machine sat idle for months before being repaired.
to spend time doing nothing
To spend time doing nothing or to be not working. To move slowly or aimlessly. To run at a slow speed or out of gear.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| idle |
This context appears to be a duplicate; if so, merge the contexts appropriately or consult to remove. |
| loiter |
This is used when someone hangs around a place without any particular purpose. It usually has a negative connotation, often implying suspicion or aimlessness.
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| laze |
This word is best used when someone is relaxing or being lazy. It often has a casual or positive connotation.
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| waste time |
This phrase is suitable when referring to spending time in an unproductive manner. It usually has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Don't idle away your time, make good use of it.
- The engine idled as they waited for the traffic light to change.
- He idled through the park, enjoying the sunshine.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, 'idle' is linked to laziness, but some philosophies argue that rest is essential for creativity and productivity.
- Certain artists and thinkers, like Henri Matisse, emphasized the value of idleness for inspiring and developing creative ideas.
- In the 18th century, people like Samuel Johnson wrote against idleness, associating it with vice, leading to the proverb 'Idleness is the devil's workshop.'
Psychological Insights
- Research shows that allowing the mind to wander during idle moments can enhance problem-solving skills and creativity.
- Being idle can also reduce stress levels, offering mental health benefits by providing much-needed breaks.
- However, excessive idleness can lead to feelings of guilt or anxiety for some people, especially in work-focused societies.
Technology and Modern Uses
- In computing, an 'idle state' indicates that a device is powered on but not performing any tasks, conserving energy.
- Idle games are a genre of video games where players manage resources passively, showing a recent cultural trend of embracing idleness in gaming.
- Developers often design software settings to help people manage their idle time, promoting leisure and balance.
Literature
- Shakespeare often portrayed characters in moments of idleness, suggesting that inaction could lead to deeper self-reflection or tragic consequences.
- In Charles Dickens' works, idle hands were often seen as a reflection of social issues, highlighting the challenges of the unemployed during the Victorian era.
- Modern literature sometimes celebrates moments of stillness, capturing the beauty of being idle through imagery and narrative style.
Origin of 'idle'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'idle' comes from the Old English word 'idla,' meaning 'idle, empty, or worthless.'
- It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'idla,' which referred to 'lazy or inactive.'
- Historically, being 'idle' was often seen negatively, as it could mean being unproductive or wasting time.
The word 'idle' originated from the Old English word 'īdel', meaning vain, worthless, or useless. It has evolved over time to encompass meanings related to inactivity, laziness, and lack of purpose. The concept of idleness has been explored in various philosophical and literary works, highlighting the importance of productivity and purposeful action.