Indolent: meaning, definitions and examples

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indolent

[ˈɪn.də.lənt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

lazy

Wanting to avoid activity or exertion; lazy.

Synonyms

idle, lazy, lethargic, sluggish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
indolent	This word is often used in a more formal context to describe someone who avoids work or activity because they prefer to be inactive. It can also describe a medical condition or disease that progresses slowly without causing much pain. He grew indolent after years of easy living. The indolent tumor did not spread quickly.
lazy	This is a commonly used word to describe someone who is unwilling to work or does minimal effort. It often carries a negative connotation. He is too lazy to clean his room. She was called lazy because she never helped with the chores.
idle	Typically used to describe someone who is not working or not being productive at a particular moment. It can also describe machines or processes that are not in operation. The workers were idle during the strike. The car engine was idle while he waited in the parking lot.
sluggish	This word describes something or someone that moves, acts, or works more slowly than usual. It can be used in both personal and broader contexts, such as machinery or economy. He felt sluggish after eating a heavy meal. The economy has been sluggish this quarter.
lethargic	Used to describe someone who feels sluggish, tired, or weak and has a lack of energy. It is often used in medical or health-related contexts. After the long flight, he felt too lethargic to do anything. The medication made her feel lethargic.

Examples of usage

He was too indolent to get out of bed.
She led an indolent lifestyle, spending her days lounging around the house.
His indolent attitude towards work often led to him being reprimanded by his boss.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'indolens,' meaning 'free from pain,' suggesting a desire to avoid effort.
Originally used in the medical sense to describe painless conditions, it later evolved to describe laziness.
The roots of 'indolent' can be found in 'dolens,' which means 'suffering,' showing a contrast between laziness and effort.

Psychology

Some studies show that traits of laziness can be linked to underlying mental health issues, such as depression.
Indolence might be a result of low motivation levels often associated with lack of fulfillment or boredom.
Understanding why someone feels indolent can help in addressing and overcoming feelings of inactivity.

Literature

Famous authors often portray indolence to highlight contrasts in character development, leading protagonists to struggle against their own laziness.
In poetry, laziness is sometimes romanticized, associating it with a carefree lifestyle, reflecting societal views on leisure.
Indolent characters can represent societal criticisms, illustrating the consequences of avoiding responsibility.

Pop Culture

Indolent characters often appear in films and books, representing the stereotypical 'stereotypical lazy person' archetype.
The infamous 'procrastination meme' culture highlights the humorous side of being indolent, showing relatable struggles.
TV shows often depict indolent characters who drive plots through their lack of motivation, creating conflict and humor.

Philosophical Perspectives

Various philosophical schools examine indolence ethically, questioning whether it is a natural state or a failure of duty.
Some argue that in a world focused on productivity, indolence can be a form of rebellion against societal expectations.
The debate continues about whether laziness can lead to innovation, suggesting that sometimes rest can inspire creativity.

Translations

Translations of the word "indolent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 indolente

🇮🇳 आलसी

🇩🇪 träge

🇮🇩 malas

🇺🇦 лінивий

🇵🇱 leniwie

🇯🇵 怠惰な (たいだな)

🇫🇷 indolent

🇪🇸 indolente

🇹🇷 tembel

🇰🇷 게으른

🇸🇦 كسول

🇨🇿 lenivý

🇸🇰 lenivý

🇨🇳 懒惰的 (lǎnduò de)

🇸🇮 len

🇮🇸 letid

🇰🇿 жалқау

🇬🇪 ზარმაცი

🇦🇿 tənbəl

🇲🇽 indolente

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,657, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17654 raven
17655 embellished
17656 sedative
17657 indolent
17658 potter
17659 audiovisual
17660 parched
...