Idleness: meaning, definitions and examples
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idleness
[ˈaɪdl̩nəs ]
Definitions
lack of activity
The state of idleness refers to the absence of work, activity, or movement. It is a state of inactivity or laziness.
Synonyms
inactivity, laziness, lethargy.
Examples of usage
- He fell into a state of idleness after losing his job.
- She enjoyed the idleness of a lazy Sunday afternoon.
- The idleness of the workers led to a decrease in productivity.
not being in use
Idleness can also refer to something that is not being used or is lying idle. It can indicate a state of disuse or neglect.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The idleness of the machinery caused it to rust.
- The idleness of the building led to its deterioration.
- She hated the idleness of her unused talents.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word has roots in the Old English 'idela', meaning empty or worthless.
- In Middle English, it was used to describe laziness or lack of activity.
- The transformations in spelling and meaning reflect changing attitudes towards work and productivity.
Psychology
- Being idle sometimes leads to creativity; the mind can wander and produce ideas when it's not busy.
- Too much idleness can cause feelings of boredom or restlessness for some individuals.
- Studies suggest that moderate idleness can reduce stress, allowing for mental recuperation.
Philosophy
- Philosopher Aristotle argued that leisure is essential for a good life, implying idleness has its value when used for reflection.
- Some philosophies emphasize the importance of embracing idleness as a way to connect with oneself and nature.
- Contrasting views exist, where endless idleness is seen as harmful and counterproductive.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some cultures, idleness is frowned upon and equated with laziness, while others celebrate it as a time for rest and restoration.
- Certain art movements, like Romanticism, highlighted the beauty of idleness as a means of connection to nature and emotion.
- Contemporary wellness trends often encourage some idleness as a necessary break from the fast-paced lifestyle.
Literature
- In literature, characters often experience idleness before moments of transformation or realization.
- The theme of idleness can illustrate societal critique, showcasing how societal expectations shape individual choices.
- Many poems celebrate quiet moments of idleness as opportunities for introspection and beauty.
Translations
Translations of the word "idleness" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ociosidade
🇮🇳 आलस्य
🇩🇪 Müßiggang
🇮🇩 kemalasan
🇺🇦 байдужість
🇵🇱 bezczynność
🇯🇵 怠惰
🇫🇷 oisiveté
🇪🇸 ociosidad
🇹🇷 tembellik
🇰🇷 게으름
🇸🇦 كسل
🇨🇿 zahálka
🇸🇰 nečinnosť
🇨🇳 懒惰
🇸🇮 lenoba
🇮🇸 aðgerðaleysi
🇰🇿 жалқаулық
🇬🇪 ზარმაცობა
🇦🇿 tənbəllik
🇲🇽 ociosidad