Ennui
hardNegative toneon-WEE
noun
Definition
A feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement
Memory hook
EN-WEE: 'Wheee' said nobody -- ennui is the opposite of excitement, pure boredom.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“After months of the same routine, she felt overwhelmed by ennui.”
“The long winter induced a sense of ennui in the small town.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“After months of the same routine, she felt overwhelmed by ______.”
Show answer
ennui
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Ennui is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "boredom" or "tedium" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "excitement".
Related GRE Words
lassitude
weariness or lack of energy
lethargy
A lack of energy and enthusiasm; sluggishness
malaise
A general feeling of discomfort, illness, or unease
torpor
A state of physical or mental inactivity; lethargy
consternation
A feeling of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected
ebullient
overflowing with enthusiasm and high spirits
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