torpid

¹

[ tawr-pid ]

adjective

1. inactive or sluggish.

   Antonyms: energetic

2. slow; dull; apathetic; lethargic.

   Synonyms: indolent

3. dormant, as a hibernating or estivating animal.

torpid

²

[ tawr-pid ]

noun

1. an eight-oared, clinker-built boat used for races at Oxford University during the Lenten term.

torpid

/ ˈtɔːpɪd /

adjective

1. apathetic, sluggish, or lethargic
2. (of a hibernating animal) dormant; having greatly reduced metabolic activity
3. unable to move or feel

Derived Forms

• ˈtorpidly, adverb
• torˈpidity, noun

Other Words From

• tor·pidi·ty torpid·ness noun
• torpid·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of torpid¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Latin torpidus “numb,” equivalent to torp(ēre) “to be stiff or numb” + -idus -id ⁴

Origin of torpid²

First recorded in 1830–40; special use of torpid ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of torpid¹

C17: from Latin torpidus, from torpēre to be numb, motionless

Synonym Study

See inactive.

Example Sentences

But the pathogen’s ability to remain infectious during torpid and active states is an important addition to this story.

From Salon

In situations like these, there are defining moments along the way that set off alarm bells, but these clarion calls were left mostly unmet by a torpid international community.

From Washington Times

Just 38 at the time, with three young children and a successful law career, the charismatic Mrs. Ewing sliced through Scotland’s torpid, sclerotic politics with her vision for an energized, independent nation.

From New York Times

In previous studies, scientists genetically engineered these neurons to respond to light or certain chemicals, and found they could cause mice to enter a torpid state even when they were warm and well-fed.

From Science Magazine

Last year, in retirement, I took a trial separation from watching MLB in its torpid entirety.

From Washington Post