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hebetude

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈhɛbɪˌtjuːd/

KK: /hɛbəˌtjud/

noun
Definition

A state of being dull or sluggish in thought; a lack of mental sharpness or energy.


Example

After a long day at work, I often feel a sense of hebetude that makes it hard to concentrate.


Conversation
Sloth A
I’ve been feeling a bit of hebetude lately, like I can't focus on anything.
Sloth B
I know what you mean; sometimes it’s hard to stay sharp.
Sloth A
Yeah, I really need to find a way to break out of this mental fog.
Sloth B
Maybe some fresh air or a quick walk would help clear your mind!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stupor
torpor
apathy
Antonyms
alertness
vivacity
intelligence
Root Explanation

Hebetude is derived from the Latin "hebetudo" (meaning dullness or bluntness), which comes from "hebes" (meaning dull or blunt). The word refers to a state of mental dullness or lethargy.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dullness' ('hebetudo') to remember that 'hebetude' refers to a state of mental dullness.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

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