listlessness Meaning and Definition
Listlessness
Pronunciation
/ˈlɪstləsnəs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A feeling of tiredness and lack of energy; a state of being apathetic or uninspired, often accompanied by a sense of emotional numbness or detachment.
Examples
- After the long flight, I felt a listlessness wash over me.
- The lack of excitement in her life was causing her to feel listlessness.
Synonyms
- Apathy
- Indifference
- Malaise
Antonyms
- Enthusiasm
- Exuberance
- Empathy
Etymology
The word “listlessness” has its roots in the 17th century, derived from the Latin words “listae,” meaning “tiredness” or “fatigue,” and “ness,” a suffix used to form nouns.
Usage Notes
When describing someone who feels listless, it is often used to convey a sense of emotional numbness or disconnection. To use the word effectively, consider the context in which it is being applied.
Cultural References
Listlessness has been referenced in various forms of media, such as literature, film, and music, often to portray characters who are struggling with emotional or mental health issues.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “I’m feeling listless today” means someone is feeling tired or lacking energy.
- “He’s been listless since the breakup” implies that someone is struggling to cope with a recent loss or emotional trauma.
Related Words or Phrases
- Indolence
- Apathy
- Lethargy
Collocations
- “feeling listless all day”
- “went through a listless period in life”
Frequency of Use
The word “listlessness” is not as commonly used as some other emotions, but it is still widely recognized and understood, especially in the context of mental health.
Common Misspellings
- listness
- lilessness