The word "lethargic" is spelled "ləˈθɑːdʒɪk" in IPA phonetic transcription. This word is derived from the Greek word "lethargos" meaning "forgetful" and refers to a state of being sluggish or lacking energy. The first syllable "le" is pronounced as "lə" with a schwa sound, while the second syllable "thar" is pronounced as "θɑː" with a long, stressed "a" sound. The last syllable "gic" is pronounced as "dʒɪk" with a soft "g" and a short "i" sound.
Lethargic is an adjective that refers to a state of extreme drowsiness, fatigue, or lack of energy. It can describe a person, animal, or even an organization that exhibits sluggishness, inactivity, or a general lack of motivation.
When applied to individuals, lethargic typically implies a feeling of extreme tiredness or exhaustion where one lacks the desire or energy to engage in even the most basic tasks. It involves a slowed physical and mental response, making it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. Lethargic individuals often find themselves experiencing a decreased level of alertness, experiencing heavy eyelids, and a strong desire to sleep or rest, even after periods of adequate rest or sleep.
In the context of animals, lethargy often suggests a period of prolonged inactivity and disinterest in engaging with their surroundings. Lethargic animals exhibit a notable lack of vigor, reduced appetite, and a diminished desire to play or exhibit normal activity levels.
For organizations or processes, lethargic can describe a state of inefficiency, where there is a lack of drive or a delay in taking necessary action. Such entities may be slow to make decisions, unresponsive to changing circumstances, or reluctant to adapt to new ideas or methods.
Overall, lethargic largely describes a state of extreme sluggishness, fatigue, and lack of motivation in individuals, animals, or organizations, often characterized by a significant decrease in activity and energy.
Preternaturally sleepy; very drowsy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word lethargic comes from the Greek word lethargikos, which is derived from lethargos. Lethargos combines the roots lethe meaning oblivion or forgetfulness, and argos meaning idle or inactive. Therefore, the term lethargic essentially means in a state of forgetfulness or sluggishness.