listless

[ list-lis ]

adjective

1. having or showing little or no interest in anything; languid; spiritless; indifferent:

   a listless mood;

   a listless handshake.

listless

/ ˈlɪstlɪs /

adjective

1. disinclined for any effort or exertion; lacking vigour, enthusiasm, or energy

Derived Forms

• ˈlistlessly, adverb
• ˈlistlessness, noun

Other Words From

• list·less·ly adverb
• list·less·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of listless¹

First recorded in 1400–50, listless is from the late Middle English word lystles. See list ⁴, -less

Word History and Origins

Origin of listless¹

C15: from list desire + -less

Synonym Study

See indifference.

Example Sentences

Jam is there because of the sudden death of her boyfriend, Reeve, and the listless state of major depression it throws her into.

From The Daily Beast

As I turned, my listless glance included the man below in the churchyard.

From The Daily Beast

The New Republic enters the fray on the most important discussion of all time: Why do young people seem so listless?

From The Daily Beast

The White House response to Tuesday's results has been listless at best.

From The Daily Beast

Instantly Eudora, who had seemed so listless, woke up with all the hospitality of her Southern nature roused to action.

From Project Gutenberg

She crept down the stairs as if listless and bored with everything, but her heart was beating thick and fast.

From Project Gutenberg

One day, feverish and excited, he played on in monotone almost listless.

From Project Gutenberg

The hours which he did not waste in listless indolence were divided between childish sports and childish devotions.

From Project Gutenberg

Instead of being confiding and happy, she seemed listless, forgetful, and nervous.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• drowsy
• dull
• inert
• lackadaisical
• languid
• leaden
• lethargic
• lifeless
• lukewarm
• passive
• sleepy
• sluggish