Fallow
Adjective
Definition: (of a period of time) characterized by inaction; unproductive.
Synonyms: Idle, Dormant, Inactive
Antonyms: Productive, Active, Busy
Examples:
- After graduating, she had a fallow year where she didn't pursue any career opportunities.
- The field lay fallow during the winter season, waiting for the next planting season.
Mnemonics:
- Think of fallow as a period of time where nothing is growing or being produced.
Etymology:
Origin:
Old English 'fealh' - plowed, or 'of a fallow color'; related to German 'fahl' - pale, and Dutch 'vaal' - faded.
Historical Usage:The term has been used since Old English and originally referred to the plowing of land and allowing it to rest without planting for a season.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Leave fallow"
Explanation:To intentionally take a break or pause from something, similar to leaving a field unplanted to let it rest.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing fallow with fallow deer.
Explanation:Fallow has multiple meanings, but it does not refer to the deer species.