What does boredom mean Meaning and Definition
What does boredom mean
Pronunciation
/ˈbɔːrɪəm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A feeling of listlessness and a lack of interest in activities, often resulting from a lack of stimulation or variety.
Examples
- After a few months of doing the same job, he started to feel boredom.
- The child was experiencing boredom during the long car ride.
Synonyms
- Tedium
- Monotony
- Apathy
Antonyms
- Excitement
- Interest
- Engagement
Additional Information
Boredom is a common experience that can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of stimulation, repetition, or a sense of monotony. In some cases, boredom can be a sign of a deeper issue, such as depression or anxiety. However, it can also be a normal and temporary experience that can be alleviated by engaging in new activities or seeking out new experiences.
There are many ways to alleviate boredom, including reading, exercising, or pursuing a hobby. Some people also find that taking breaks or engaging in relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help to reduce feelings of boredom.
In addition to its negative effects, boredom can also have some positive effects. For example, it can prompt people to be more creative or to seek out new experiences. It can also provide an opportunity for reflection and self-awareness, allowing people to re-evaluate their priorities and goals.
Etymology
The word “boredom” comes from the verb “to bore,” which means to make someone feel tired or uninterested. The word has been in use since the 19th century, and it is derived from the Old English word “borian,” which means “to pierce” or “to perforate.”
Usage Notes
The word “boredom” can be used in a variety of contexts, including formal and informal writing. It can also be used in conversation, and it is a common topic of discussion in everyday life.
When using the word “boredom,” it is often helpful to provide context or examples to illustrate the concept. For example, someone might say, “I’m feeling bored because I’ve been doing the same job for years.” This provides more information about the cause of the boredom and helps to clarify the concept.
Cultural References
The concept of boredom has been referenced in many cultural works, including literature, music, and film. For example, the novel “The Stranger” by Albert Camus explores the theme of boredom and its effects on the human psyche. The song “Boredom” by the Buzzcocks is a punk rock anthem that captures the feeling of restlessness and discontent that often accompanies boredom.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are several idiomatic expressions that include the word “boredom,” including “bored to tears” and “bored out of my mind.” These phrases are used to convey the idea that someone is extremely bored or uninterested.
Related Words or Phrases
Some related words or phrases to “boredom” include “apathy,” “listlessness,” and “tedium.” These words all convey a sense of disinterest or lack of enthusiasm.
Collocations
Some common collocations with the word “boredom” include “feeling bored,” “overcome boredom,” and “relieve boredom.” These phrases are often used in everyday conversation to describe the experience of boredom.
Frequency of Use
The word “boredom” is a relatively common word in modern language, and it is often used in everyday conversation. According to the Corpus of Contemporary American English, the word “boredom” is used approximately 1.5 times per million words.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word “boredom” include “bordom” and “bordeom.” These misspellings are often the result of a lack of attention to detail or a misunderstanding of the word’s spelling.