What does weariness mean?
Weariness is a formal noun meaning tiredness, especially the profound fatigue that follows sustained effort, missed sleep, or physical strain. It can also describe mental and emotional exhaustion, including the discouragement or loss of enthusiasm that comes from monotonous work, difficult circumstances, or prolonged pressure. The word is often stronger than simple tiredness and suggests that rest or relief is needed. In literary and professional contexts, it may imply a deep or persistent condition rather than momentary fatigue. For example, a traveler might describe bodily weariness after a long journey, while a person facing a frustrating daily routine might speak of weariness of spirit. Although the related adjective weary is common, weariness has a more deliberate, somewhat elevated register and is especially useful when describing exhaustion that affects both body and mind.
nounThe state of being very tired, especially as a result of exertion, lack of sleep, or prolonged strain. It can also refer to a similarly exhausted or dispirited feeling brought on by difficult or monotonous circumstances.
- Physical tiredness or exhaustion caused by exertion, inadequate sleep, or strain.
- Mental or emotional exhaustion, often accompanied by discouragement or a diminished sense of enthusiasm.
"A palpable weariness settled over the team after weeks of working through the night."
"Her weariness was evident in the slow way she lifted her head."
"The endless committee meetings produced a deep weariness among the staff."
Rare; weariness is normally used as an uncountable noun.
"The novel explores the different wearinesses of the travelers."
Weariness can describe the body, the mind, or the spirit—capturing the feeling that arrives when even routine effort becomes difficult.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How weariness is actually used
Generally formal and literary in tone. It is usually an uncountable noun, although the plural is occasionally used when distinct kinds or degrees of weariness are being discussed.
Easily confused with weariness
Weariness is the noun naming a state of tiredness or exhaustion, whereas weary is the adjective describing a person or thing that feels tired.