lethargy
This term describes a heavy, oppressive lack of energy that transcends simple tiredness. It suggests a systemic slowing down of both physical movement and mental alertness, often carrying a connotation of inertia or a struggle to initiate any action.
In medical contexts, it refers to a specific clinical state of drowsiness or diminished consciousness. Because it is an uncountable noun, it cannot be pluralized to describe multiple instances of the state; instead, phrases like "periods of lethargy" or "episodes of lethargy" must be used to quantify the experience.
Meanings
A state of tiredness, laziness, or lack of energy and enthusiasm.
The patient suffered from a deep lethargy that made it difficult to get out of bed.
A pathological state of sleepiness or drowsiness caused by a medical condition or drug.
The medication induced a profound lethargy, leaving the subject unresponsive for hours.
Examples
A general sense of lethargy settled over the office on Monday morning.
The doctor noted the patient's lethargy as a symptom of the infection.