Idleness: meaning, definitions and examples
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idleness
[ ˈaɪdl̩nəs ]
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
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
Etymology
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.