Lethargic
mediumNegative toneluh-THAR-jik
adjective
Definition
Affected by lethargy; sluggish and apathetic
Memory hook
LETHARGIC = LEATHER + DRAG — imagine dragging a heavy leather couch. You're too sluggish to move.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“After the large meal, everyone felt lethargic and drowsy.”
“The hot weather made the entire office lethargic.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“After the large meal, everyone felt ______ and drowsy.”
Show answer
lethargic
Categories
GRE Tip
Lethargic is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "sluggish" or "torpid" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "energetic".
Related GRE Words
languorous
Characterized by tiredness or inactivity; pleasantly lazy
torpid
Mentally or physically inactive; lethargic
languid
lacking energy or vigor; slow and relaxed
listless
Lacking energy or enthusiasm
lackadaisical
Lacking enthusiasm and determination; carelessly lazy
lethargy
A lack of energy and enthusiasm; sluggishness
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