Sluggish

Adjective

Definition: Slow-moving or lacking energy; inactive or sluggish in nature.

Synonyms: Slow, Lethargic, Inactive, Lazy

Antonyms: Quick, Agile, Lively, Energetic

Examples:

After a heavy meal, she felt sluggish and unable to move quickly.
The sluggish economy led to a decline in job opportunities.

Mnemonics:

Think of a sluggish snail moving slowly.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "sluggish" originated from the Middle English word "slugge" or "slagge," which referred to a slow or lazy person.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since the 14th century to describe the characteristic of being slow or inactive.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Sluggish as molasses"

Explanation:

This phrase emphasizes extreme slowness, comparing an individual or situation to the slow movement of molasses.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "sluggish" with "sluggard"

Explanation:

While "sluggish" describes the characteristic of being slow-moving or inactive, "sluggard" refers specifically to a lazy or idle person. These two words have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably.