Torpor: meaning, definitions and examples

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torpor

[ˈtɔːpə(r) ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

state of inactivity

Torpor is a state of physical or mental inactivity, lethargy, or sluggishness. It is often characterized by a lack of energy, motivation, or responsiveness.

Synonyms

inactivity, lethargy, sluggishness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
torpor	Used to describe a state of mental or physical inactivity, often implying dullness and a lack of energy. It can also refer to a state of reduced metabolic activity in animals. Typically, this term is more formal or scientific. After the long hike, he fell into a state of torpor, unable to move or think clearly During the winter, some animals enter a state of torpor to conserve energy
lethargy	Describes a state of sluggishness, drowsiness, and a lack of energy or enthusiasm, often implying a much more severe tiredness. It can be used in both medical and everyday contexts. She felt a strong sense of lethargy after the long flight The medicine caused lethargy, making it hard for him to stay awake
inactivity	Refers plainly to the state of not being engaged in any physical activity. It is a neutral term and can be used in everyday contexts. His prolonged inactivity led to weight gain The office remained in a state of inactivity over the holidays
sluggishness	Used to describe a lack of energy, speed, or alertness, often in a way that implies noticeable slowness or laziness. The context can be both physical and mental. His sluggishness was evident as he dragged himself out of bed The sluggishness of the economy worried many experts

Examples of usage

He fell into a state of torpor after a long day of work.
The hot weather induced a sense of torpor in the group.
She struggled to shake off the torpor that had settled over her.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

biology

In biology, torpor refers to a state of decreased physiological activity in an animal, usually characterized by a low body temperature and metabolic rate.

Synonyms

dormancy, hibernation, quiescence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
torpor	Torpor describes a state of sluggishness, lethargy, or inactivity, often used to describe a temporary period of reduced physical and mental activity. It can be caused by cold temperatures or periods of rest. The bear awoke from its torpor and searched for food. The extreme heat left him in a state of torpor.
dormancy	Dormancy refers to a period in which growth, development, and physical activity are temporarily halted. It is often used in the context of plants, seeds, or animals during certain seasons. The seeds remain in dormancy until the conditions are right for germination. The volcano has been in a state of dormancy for decades.
hibernation	Hibernation is used to describe a long-term period of deep sleep or inactivity in animals during the winter, helping them conserve energy when food is scarce. Bears enter hibernation to survive the harsh winter months. During hibernation, the animal's metabolic rate drops significantly.
quiescence	Quiescence denotes a state of inactivity or dormancy, often implying calmness and stillness. It can be used to describe both biological contexts and quiet periods in general. The garden was in a state of quiescence during the winter. Her quiescence during the meeting was noticeable.

Examples of usage

Some animals enter torpor to conserve energy during cold winter months.
The bear went into torpor in its den.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

This term comes from Latin 'torpere,' which means 'to be inactive or numb.'
It has been used in English since the early 17th century to describe a sluggish state.
The root word connects to various forms in languages like Spanish and Italian, emphasizing slowness.

Biology

Some animals, like bears and bats, experience torpor as a way to conserve energy during cold seasons.
In animals, torpor is a natural state that can last for hours or days, allowing them to survive without food.
This condition is different from hibernation, which is a longer-term survival strategy.

Psychology

Feeling torpid can sometimes be a result of mental fatigue, where your mind just wants to take a break.
This state is often linked to depression and other mood disorders, which can make people feel unmotivated.
Engaging in mindfulness or light exercise can help combat feelings of torpor by refreshing the mind and body.

Literature

In literary works, torpor often symbolizes a character's emotional or existential struggle, reflecting on feelings of inertia.
Famous works, like Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein,' depict characters in states of torpor, revealing their conflict with society.
Poets have used this concept to evoke imagery of stagnation versus movement, often within nature.

Culture

In modern culture, the term often arises in discussions about 'sophisticated laziness' or 'cozy living,' especially in lifestyle blogs.
Yoga and meditation practices sometimes aim to combat torpor by fostering mindfulness and alertness.
Films often use scenes of torpid characters to highlight moments of introspection or loss, creating a powerful juxtaposition.

Translations

Translations of the word "torpor" in other languages:

🇵🇹 torpor

🇮🇳 सुस्ती

🇩🇪 Trägheit

🇮🇩 kelambanan

🇺🇦 дрімота

🇵🇱 otępienie

🇯🇵 無気力

🇫🇷 torpeur

🇪🇸 letargo

🇹🇷 uyuşukluk

🇰🇷 무기력

🇸🇦 خمول

🇨🇿 otupělost

🇸🇰 otupenosť

🇨🇳 迟钝

🇸🇮 otopelost

🇮🇸 dauðleiki

🇰🇿 селқостық

🇬🇪 განურჩევლობა

🇦🇿 laqeydlik

🇲🇽 letargo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,572, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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24569 smartest
24570 pageantry
24571 pique
24572 torpor
24573 feigning
24574 conferencing
24575 ruffian
...