Definition

A tendency to avoid work or activity; a state of being lazy.

Example

His indolence prevented him from completing his assignments on time.

Conversation

I’ve been feeling a bit of indolence lately, like I just want to do nothing.

I totally get that! Sometimes it's hard to find motivation.

Yeah, I need to break this cycle of indolence before it gets worse.

How about we set some goals together? It might help us both!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Indolence is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "dolere" (meaning to feel pain or grief). The word describes a state of being where one is not feeling pain, which metaphorically extends to a lack of activity or effort, hence laziness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not feeling pain' ('in-' means not and 'dolere' means to feel pain) to remember that indolence refers to a state of laziness or inactivity.

Visually Confused Words