What does burnout mean for a human Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈbərnoʊt/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, overwork, and lack of balance in life, leading to feelings of hopelessness, detachment, and exhaustion.

Examples

The employee suffered from burnout after working long hours for months without a break.
Years of caring for her sick parent left her feeling burned out and in need of self-care.

Synonyms

Exhaustion
Fatigue

Antonyms

Energy
Vitality

Additional Information

Burnout is a common problem in today’s fast-paced work environment, and can have serious consequences on a person’s mental and physical health. It is essential to recognize the signs of burnout, such as chronic fatigue, cynicism, and reduced performance, and take steps to prevent it by maintaining a healthy work-life balance, prioritizing self-care, and seeking support from colleagues, friends, and family.

Burnout can also affect individuals outside of the workplace, such as caregivers, parents, and students, who may feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities and lack of control over their lives. In these cases, it is crucial to identify the root causes of burnout and develop strategies to manage stress, set boundaries, and cultivate resilience.

Etymology

The term “burnout” was first used in the 1970s to describe the physical and emotional exhaustion experienced by healthcare professionals. Since then, it has been adopted to describe similar states of exhaustion in various contexts.

Usage Notes

Burnout is often used interchangeably with stress, but it is a more severe and long-term condition that requires attention and intervention. It is essential to use the term accurately to convey the gravity of the situation.

Cultural References

Burnout has been featured in popular culture, such as in the TV show “The Office,” where the character Dwight Schrute experiences burnout due to his demanding job and personal responsibilities.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

to burn out
to be burned out

Related Words or Phrases

Fatigue
Exhaustion
Stress

Collocations

burnout syndrome
chronic burnout
burnout prevention

Frequency of Use

Burnout has become a popular term in modern language, especially in the context of work-life balance and mental health. It is frequently used in media, academia, and everyday conversations.