ennui
/ɒnˈwiː/
Group 29Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (noun)
- A feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement GRE
Example in Context
The ennui that pervaded the protagonist's life was the novel's central theme, explored through a series of failed attempts to find purpose.
Synonyms
boredomtediumweariness
Etymology
A French term meaning to be bored out of your mind.
- ennuyer (French) — to bore
Memory Aid
😴Sounds like “on we”
Sitting at a meeting, thinking 'On we go, ENNUI is killing me!' as you fight to stay awake!
Visual Association
😫A person slumped over a desk, surrounded by empty coffee cups, completely uninspired.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “ennui” mean on the GRE?
ennui (noun) means “A feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement”. The ennui that pervaded the protagonist's life was the novel's central theme, explored through a series of failed attempts to find purpose.
How to remember “ennui” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “ennui” sounds like “on we”. Sitting at a meeting, thinking 'On we go, ENNUI is killing me!' as you fight to stay awake!
What are synonyms for “ennui”?
Common synonyms: boredom, tedium, weariness.