Idlest: meaning, definitions and examples
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idlest
[ˈaɪ.dəl.ɪst ]
Definition
state of inactivity
Idlest is the superlative form of idle, which describes a state of inaction or lack of activity. In a broad sense, it refers to being at rest or not engaged in work or activity. When something is idlest, it suggests that it is doing nothing the most compared to others. This term can apply to people, objects, or places that are devoid of action or movement. It often carries a negative connotation when used to describe people as it emphasizes laziness or unwillingness to work.
Synonyms
laziest, most inactive, most indolent.
Examples of usage
- He was the idlest student in the class.
- During the winter, the farm remained idlest.
- His idlest days were spent watching television.
- The idlest machines in the factory needed maintenance.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 'Idlest' comes from the Middle English word 'idel', which means 'empty' or 'inactive'.
- The root of 'idle' traces back to the Old English 'idel' meaning 'useless' or 'unoccupied'.
- The term has evolved to describe both physical inactivity and, in some contexts, a lack of productivity.
Cultural References
- In literature, characters who personify idleness often serve as warnings about the consequences of laziness.
- The phrase 'idle hands are the devil's workshop' warns that without work, people may engage in mischief.
- Some cultures venerate rest as a necessary part of life, depicting idleness positively in arts and poems.
Psychology
- Excessive idleness can lead to feelings of boredom and dissatisfaction, which may affect mental health.
- The concept of 'idle time' can impact productivity, causing individuals to feel guilty or unfulfilled.
- Conversely, some research suggests that allowing oneself moments of idleness may spark creativity and problem-solving.
Historical Perspective
- In the Renaissance, idleness was often criticized as a moral failing, contrasting sharply with the era's emphasis on productivity.
- The Industrial Revolution shifted views on idleness, as work became more valued and leisure time less accepted.
- Social reformers in the 19th century recognized the importance of leisure, leading to movements advocating for balanced lives.
Modern Usage
- In today's fast-paced society, idleness is often mistaken for unproductivity, yet relaxation is crucial for mental health.
- The rise of technology has created both opportunities for idleness and a culture that shames it, creating a paradox.
- People often seek 'idleness' in holidays, highlighting the tension between modern work culture and the need for rest.
Translations
Translations of the word "idlest" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ocioso
- inativo
- preguiçoso
🇮🇳 निष्क्रिय
- आलसी
- सुस्त
🇩🇪 träge
- untätig
- faul
🇮🇩 malas
- tidak aktif
- tidak produktif
🇺🇦 байдужий
- пасивний
- лінивий
🇵🇱 bezczynny
- leniwy
- nieaktywny
🇯🇵 怠惰な
- 無活動の
- 無駄な
🇫🇷 oisif
- inactif
- paresseux
🇪🇸 inactivo
- perezoso
- ocioso
🇹🇷 tembel
- hareketsiz
- boş
🇰🇷 게으른
- 비활성의
- 나태한
🇸🇦 كسول
- غير نشط
- عاطل
🇨🇿 nečinný
- líný
- pasivní
🇸🇰 nečinný
- lenivý
- pasívny
🇨🇳 懒惰的
- 不活跃的
- 无所事事的
🇸🇮 neaktiven
- len
- pasiven
🇮🇸 daufur
- óvirkur
- leti
🇰🇿 бос
- белсенді емес
- еріншек
🇬🇪 ქმედების გარეშე
- უძრავი
- ზარმაცი
🇦🇿 tənbəl
- fəal olmayan
- işsiz
🇲🇽 inactivo
- perezoso
- ocioso