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listlessness

noun

/ˈlɪst lɪs nɪs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of listlessness

A state of lacking energy, enthusiasm, or motivation.
"The monotonous routine at work contributed to his growing sense of listlessness."

Detailed meaning of listlessness

It signifies a feeling of apathy, lethargy, or a general lack of interest in engaging with activities or pursuing goals. When experiencing listlessness, individuals may find it difficult to concentrate, feel uninspired, or display a lack of initiative. It is often accompanied by a sense of weariness or disinterest, leading to a reduced capacity for productivity or enjoyment. Listlessness can result from various factors, such as physical exhaustion, emotional fatigue, boredom, or a lack of purpose. It is commonly associated with feelings of emptiness or dissatisfaction. Individuals experiencing listlessness may exhibit a lack of engagement in their usual pursuits, have difficulty initiating or completing tasks, or feel a general sense of disengagement from their surroundings. Addressing the underlying causes of listlessness often involves self-care, rest, seeking support, or reevaluating one's goals and priorities to regain a sense of purpose and motivation.

Example sentences containing listlessness

1. After a sleepless night, he felt a deep sense of listlessness throughout the day.
2. The prolonged heatwave left the community in a state of listlessness.
3. She struggled to overcome her ongoing listlessness and find motivation to pursue her passions.
4. The rainy weather outside matched her feelings of listlessness and melancholy.
5. The constant stream of bad news in the media left people with a sense of listlessness and hopelessness.
6. He sought therapy to address his persistent listlessness and lack of joy in life.

History and etymology of listlessness

The noun 'listlessness' is formed from the adjective 'listless,' which has an etymology rooted in Old English. It can be traced back to the Old English word 'læt,' meaning slow or sluggish. This term was used to describe a state of lacking energy, enthusiasm, or motivation, which is at the core of the modern concept of 'listlessness.' Over time, 'læt' evolved into 'listles,' with the suffix '-less' added to indicate the absence of the qualities associated with energy and enthusiasm. Therefore, 'listlessness' emerged as a noun to describe the state of being devoid of these essential qualities, often characterized by a lack of interest or drive. The etymology of 'listlessness' reflects the historical connection between the word and the absence of vigor, conveying the sense of sluggishness and indifference that it embodies.

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Further usage examples of listlessness

1. The unfulfilling job drained her of energy and left her with a pervasive sense of listlessness.
2. The prolonged quarantine led to a pervasive feeling of listlessness among many individuals.
3. The loss of a loved one often accompanies a period of profound listlessness and grief.
4. The winter months often bring a sense of listlessness and reduced motivation.
5. She tried engaging in new hobbies and activities to combat her feelings of listlessness and find a sense of purpose.
6. The gloomy weather brought on a sense of listlessness in the group.
7. After the long journey, they felt a deep sense of listlessness.
8. The monotonous routine at work led to a pervasive sense of listlessness.
9. He couldn't shake off the overwhelming listlessness that had settled in.
10. The unending meetings left everyone with a feeling of listlessness.
11. The constant stress contributed to her persistent listlessness.
12. The lack of progress in the project was causing widespread listlessness.
13. The medication side effects brought about a state of listlessness.
14. Summer vacation brought relief from the academic listlessness.
15. The news of the setback left them in a state of listlessness.
16. His uninspiring job filled him with a profound listlessness.
17. The repetitive tasks at hand induced a collective listlessness.
18. A sense of listlessness often follows a major life change.
19. The uneventful weekend left them in a state of listlessness.
20. The prolonged illness resulted in noticeable listlessness.
21. They tried various activities to combat their listlessness.
22. The dull, gray surroundings contributed to the general listlessness.
23. His lack of direction in life led to a persistent listlessness.
24. The mundane daily routine drained them of energy, causing listlessness.
25. Overcoming listlessness required finding new sources of motivation.