Idleness: meaning, definitions and examples

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idleness

 

[ ˈaɪdl̩nəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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

disuse, neglect, unused

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

Word origin

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.

See also: idle, idler, idly.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,718, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.