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The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner
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torpid

IPA:

How to pronounce torpid (audio)

Dictionary definition of torpid

Inactivity, lethargy, or sluggishness, often associated with a lack of energy or motivation.
"The torpid state of the economy made it difficult for businesses to grow."

Detailed meaning of torpid

A torpid person or animal may be slow-moving and inactive, and may exhibit a lack of interest in their surroundings or activities. The term can also be used to describe a situation or environment that is slow-moving or stagnant, and may lack vitality or excitement. In general, the term 'torpid' is used to describe something that is slow-moving, inactive, or dull, and may be associated with a lack of energy or enthusiasm. The use of the term suggests a sense of slowness or stagnation, and may be used to express a sense of boredom or disinterest in a particular situation or activity.

Example sentences containing torpid

1. After the surgery, he felt torpid and unable to engage in his usual activities.
2. The town was torpid, showing no sign of the bustling life it once held.
3. The animal's movements were torpid, a clear indication of its distress.
4. The heat of the afternoon sun made everyone feel torpid and sluggish.
5. The torpid economy was a major concern for the new president.
6. The meeting was filled with torpid discussions that went nowhere.

History and etymology of torpid

The adjective 'torpid' traces its origins to the Latin word 'torpidus,' which is derived from 'torpere,' meaning 'to be numb' or 'to be sluggish.' This etymological root precisely captures the essence of 'torpid' as it describes inactivity, lethargy, or sluggishness, often associated with a lack of energy or motivation. Over time, 'torpid' transitioned into Middle English as 'torpide,' maintaining its connection to a state of numbness or sluggishness. The etymology of 'torpid' serves as a linguistic reflection of its meaning, deeply rooted in the concept of a lack of vitality and motivation, which characterizes this adjective.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective torpid:

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Further usage examples of torpid

1. The student seemed torpid, barely able to concentrate on the lesson.
2. In winter, many animals enter a torpid state to conserve energy.
3. The medicine made her feel torpid and she spent most of the day asleep.
4. The atmosphere in the office was torpid, making it hard to motivate the team.
5. His torpid gaze made me doubt he was paying attention to our conversation.
6. The lecture was so torpid that half of the audience fell asleep.
7. She looked at the torpid sea, wishing for a breeze to break the monotony.
8. Despite the exciting news, the crowd's response was surprisingly torpid.
9. His torpid attitude towards work was becoming a concern for his supervisors.
10. The once vibrant city had become torpid after the natural disaster.
11. The garden was torpid in the dead of winter, waiting for spring's rejuvenation.
12. After a heavy meal, I usually feel torpid and in need of a nap.
13. The team's torpid performance in the match led to their defeat.
14. He has a torpid mind, refusing to engage with new ideas or perspectives.

GRE 12 (Graduate Record Examination), SAT 19 (Scholastic Assessment Test), Lethargy and Hopelessness

apathetic,indolent,inert,lackadaisical,languid,listless,slothful

lazy,unresponsive

sluggish, active, energetic, dynamic

eb68db_7d61817f8b194d6ab9a525c80db21f1e.mp3

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