torpor
/ˈtɔːpə(ɹ)/
Group 14Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (noun)
- A state of physical or mental inactivity; lethargy GRE
Example in Context
The nation seemed to awaken from a long torpor, with citizens pouring into the streets to demand reforms that had been deferred for decades.
Synonyms
lazinesssluggishnessinactivity
Etymology
A state of being numb or inactive, like a sluggish sloth.
- torpere (Latin) — to be numb or inactive
Memory Aid
🦥Sounds like “tor poor”
A TORpid sloth sitting on a branch, looking POORLY motivated to move!
Visual Association
😴A sloth lazily hanging upside down, snoozing without a care in the world.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “torpor” mean on the GRE?
torpor (noun) means “A state of physical or mental inactivity; lethargy”. The nation seemed to awaken from a long torpor, with citizens pouring into the streets to demand reforms that had been deferred for decades.
How to remember “torpor” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “torpor” sounds like “tor poor”. A TORpid sloth sitting on a branch, looking POORLY motivated to move!
What are synonyms for “torpor”?
Common synonyms: laziness, sluggishness, inactivity.