Idleness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'idleness'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'idleness' originated from the Old English word 'īdelnes', which meant 'vanity' or 'frivolity'. Over time, it evolved to signify the state of being idle or inactive. The concept of idleness has been explored in various philosophical and literary works, often associated with ideas of productivity, work ethic, and leisure. In modern times, idleness is viewed differently across cultures, with some valuing relaxation and downtime while others prioritize constant activity and productivity.