faineant
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //feɪˈneɪ//
KK: /feɪnˈjɑːnt/
adjective
Definition
Not willing to work or put in effort; lazy and inactive.
Example
He was often criticized for his faineant attitude towards his responsibilities.
Conversation
I can't believe how faineant he is about getting his work done.
Right? He just lounges around all day without a care.
It's frustrating to see someone so faineant when there are deadlines approaching.
Totally! I wish he would at least try to be more productive.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
lazy
indolent
slothful
Antonyms
diligent
active
energetic
noun
Definition
A person who is lazy and does not want to work or do anything productive.
Example
He was often called a faineant because he never helped with any chores.
Conversation
I can't believe how lazy John has been lately.
Yeah, he really acts like a total faineant sometimes.
It's frustrating because he never helps out with anything.
Root Explanation
Faineant comes from the Old French 'faignant' (meaning lazy or idle), which is derived from 'faire' (meaning to do) and 'néant' (meaning nothing). The word describes someone who does nothing or is lazy.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'doing nothing' ('faignant' means lazy) — that's why 'faineant' refers to a lazy person.
Visually Confused Words
fingent
facient