Need another word for Idleness? Use these synonyms of Idleness from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
lethargy
laziness
indolence
sloth
inactivity
inertia
dormancy
quiescence
stagnation
inaction
torpor
apathy
listlessness
languor
lassitude
sluggishness
idling
loafing
dawdling
procrastination
delay
dilatoriness
sloppiness
neglect
remissness
laxity
torpidity
somnolence
dormancy
repose
rest
relaxation
leisure
unemployment
joblessness
inoccupation
otiosity
faineance
indolency
slothfulness
lazyiness
shiftlessness
good-for-nothingness
Meaning of Idleness
The state of being idle or not working.
Definitions
- The quality of being idle, or not working or active
- A state of inactivity, or a lack of effort or energy
- The avoidance of work or exertion, often due to laziness or lack of motivation
Etymology of Idleness
The word "idleness" comes from the Old English word "idel", which means "empty" or "void", and the suffix "-ness", which forms a noun indicating a state or quality
The word has been used in English since the 9th century to describe a state of inactivity or lack of occupation
Over time, the word has taken on connotations of laziness, sloth, and a lack of motivation or energy
Example Uses
- The company was forced to lay off employees due to idleness and a lack of work
- She was accused of idleness and laziness by her parents, who wanted her to get a job
- The idleness of the summer months was a welcome respite from the busy school year
- The government implemented policies to reduce idleness and encourage employment among young people
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
diligence
industriousness
activity
energy
effort
exertion
labor
toil
work
employment
occupation
engagement
involvement
participation
industriousness
busyness
assiduity
sedulity
application
exertion
striveness
endeavor
enterprise
initiative
motivation
enthusiasm
eagerness
willingness
alacrity
promptness
quickness
briskness
liveliness
vigor
vitality