do-nothing

[ doo-nuhth-ing ]

noun

1. a person who chooses to do nothing; a lazy or worthless person.

adjective

1. characterized by inability or unwillingness to initiate action, work toward a goal, assume responsibility, or the like:

   a do-nothing government.

Word History and Origins

Origin of do-nothing¹

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

Barca, in a statement announcing his campaign, said his long record of public service showed that he was a fighter for working families and contrasted himself with a “do-nothing, dysfunctional Congress.”

From Seattle Times

The standoff threatens to mire the House in another standstill, saddling the Republican majority with a do-nothing label after months of turmoil that has sent some seasoned lawmakers heading for the exits.

From Seattle Times

And Putin will be helped by the do-nothing, destructive, MAGA-driven minority in the U.S.

From Seattle Times

And make no mistake: Greene, a perfect specimen of do-nothing right-wing congressional service, lives for these camera-ready moments of political theater.

From Salon

With just 27 bills and resolutions signed into law, not counting a few board appointments, it’s among the most do-nothing sessions of Congress in recent times.

From Seattle Times