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inert

adjective

/ɪˈnəːt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of inert

Lacking in energy or action, often associated with the absence of movement or change.
"The organization was criticized for its inert approach to innovation."

Detailed meaning of inert

An inert object or substance may be unresponsive to outside forces, unable to produce any effect or change in its environment. For example, an inert gas like helium is often used to provide a stable and unreactive environment for scientific experiments, while an inert person may lack motivation or the ability to take initiative. Inert can also describe a situation or condition that is stagnant or unchanging, such as an inert economy that is not growing or an inert conversation that has stalled. Overall, the term "inert" conveys the idea of something that is static, passive, and lacking in vitality.

Example sentences containing inert

1. The inert gas was used to create a stable environment for the experiment.
2. The rock was inert and did not react to any of the tests.
3. The inert soil lacked the nutrients needed for plant growth.
4. The patient was unresponsive and appeared inert.
5. The inert economy was struggling to grow and create jobs.
6. The inert atmosphere inside the room made it difficult to breathe.

History and etymology of inert

The adjective 'inert' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'inertis,' which means 'unskilled' or 'inactive.' This Latin term is a combination of 'in' (not) and 'ars' (skill or activity). Originally, 'inert' referred to something lacking in skill or ability. Over time, it evolved to describe objects or entities that are lacking in energy or action, often associated with the absence of movement or change. When we say something is 'inert,' we imply that it is not actively participating in any processes or exhibiting any form of activity. The etymology of 'inert' underscores the notion of a lack of skill or capability, emphasizing the idea that the object or entity is unresponsive or unengaged in any form of action or movement.

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Further usage examples of inert

1. The conversation became inert and lacked any new ideas.
2. The inert battery could not power the device.
3. The artist's inert style lacked energy and dynamism.
4. The inert volcano had not erupted in centuries.
5. The inert audience failed to react to the performer's jokes.
6. The inert rock formation had remained unchanged for centuries, unmoved by time.
7. The patient's inert state concerned the medical team; they sought a solution.
8. His inert response indicated a lack of interest, leaving the conversation stagnant.
9. The inert atmosphere in the room made it feel lifeless; excitement was needed.
10. The economy was inert, showing no signs of growth or improvement.
11. The pond's surface was inert, reflecting the stillness of the day's tranquility.
12. The car's inert engine refused to start, frustrating its owner.
13. Her inert attitude toward the project hindered progress, causing delays.
14. The inert gas filled the chamber, creating a stable, unchanging environment.
15. The company's inert stock prices worried investors, who feared losses.
16. The house had an inert, abandoned feel to it, as if time had stood still.
17. The meeting was inert, with no new ideas presented, lacking energy.
18. The medication left him feeling unusually inert, affecting his daily life.
19. The inert traffic signaled a long wait for commuters, causing frustration.
20. The book's plot was so inert that it failed to engage readers, lacking excitement.
21. The inert response from the audience disappointed the speaker, who sought interaction.
22. The inert state of the computer was due to a technical glitch, requiring repair.
23. The day's heat left the air feeling inert and oppressive, stifling movement.
24. The inert reaction in the lab puzzled the scientists, demanding further investigation.
25. The town's inert growth raised concerns about its future, prompting discussions on revitalization.