What does lassitude mean?
Lassitude means a state of unusual weariness, listlessness, or lack of physical and mental energy. It can describe the exhaustion that follows exertion, but it also applies to a passive or apathetic mood, such as the drowsiness of a hot afternoon or the low energy of a long, uneventful day. The word has a formal, slightly literary tone, so it is more common in careful prose, journalism, and literary description than in casual conversation. Its use often implies that the person affected lacks the energy or inclination to act normally, making it more specific and expressive than simply saying that someone is tired. Lassitude can be temporary, as after travel or illness, but it can also describe a persistent condition. In medical and psychological contexts, it may refer to a marked reduction in activity, motivation, or alertness.
nounA state of physical or mental weariness characterized by listlessness and reduced energy. It can also refer to a feeling of boredom or apathy.
- Physical or mental weariness; fatigue.
- Listlessness or apathy, especially as a temporary state.
"The long journey left her in a state of profound lassitude."
"A heavy lunch and the summer heat brought on a familiar afternoon lassitude."
"The report attributed the team's declining performance to fatigue and general lassitude."
The plural is grammatically regular but uncommon; the singular is normally used for the condition or feeling.
"The novel describes the lassitudes of the emigrants during their first winter."
Lassitude is the name for that unmistakable afternoon feeling when even a small task seems to require extraordinary effort.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lassitude come from?
Lassitude comes through French from Latin lassitudo, a noun derived from lassus, meaning tired or weary. The Latin root also underlies English words such as lazy, laziness, and laze. The English form entered use during the 17th century, retaining the sense of both physical fatigue and mental listlessness.
How lassitude is actually used
Lassitude is more formal and literary than everyday words such as tiredness and weariness. It often suggests a state of low energy or unwillingness to act, rather than exertion alone.