lethargic

/ləˈθɑɹdʒɪk/

Group 13Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Affected by lethargy; sluggish and apathetic
GRE

Example in Context

The lethargic response of the regulatory agency to the complaints allowed the violations to continue for years before any enforcement action was taken.

Synonyms

sluggishdrowsylistless

Etymology

From Greek, indicating a state of sluggishness and inactivity.

  • lethargia (Greek) — forgetfulness

Memory Aid

😴Sounds like “let's argue

When someone says 'LET'S ARGUE!' and you just feel so LETHARGIC, you reply with a yawn!

Visual Association

😪A sloth hanging lazily from a tree, barely moving as the world rushes by below.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “lethargic” mean on the GRE?

lethargic (adjective) means “Affected by lethargy; sluggish and apathetic”. The lethargic response of the regulatory agency to the complaints allowed the violations to continue for years before any enforcement action was taken.

How to remember “lethargic” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “lethargic” sounds like “let's argue”. When someone says 'LET'S ARGUE!' and you just feel so LETHARGIC, you reply with a yawn!

What are synonyms for “lethargic”?

Common synonyms: sluggish, drowsy, listless.