sluggish

adjective

slug·​gish ˈslə-gish 

1

: averse to activity or exertion : indolent

also : torpid

2

: slow to respond (as to stimulation or treatment)

3

a

: markedly slow in movement, flow, or growth

b

: economically inactive or slow

sluggishly adverb

sluggishness noun

Synonyms of sluggish

• slow
• leisurely
• lagging

Examples of sluggish in a Sentence

The game picked up after a sluggish start.

the sluggish pace of the project is worrisome

Recent Examples on the Web

On Friday morning, the Financial Times reported that the company is facing pressure from an activist investor over its sluggish performance and slumping stock. —Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 26 Dec. 2025

These additions slow digestion, improve satiety, and reduce the likelihood of the sharp spikes and crashes that leave you feeling sluggish. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 25 Dec. 2025

There would not be a letdown Monday night, although Saleh had to rally his defense after a sluggish start. —Cam Inman, Mercury News, 23 Dec. 2025

The strong economic growth in the third quarter appeared to defy fears about the sluggish labor market, which some observers have viewed as a warning sign for the wider economy. —Max Zahn, ABC News, 23 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sluggish

adjective

slug·​gish ˈsləg-ish 

: slow in movement or reaction by habit or condition

sluggishly adverb

sluggishness noun

Medical Definition

sluggish

adjective

slug·​gish ˈsləg-ish 

: markedly slow in movement, progression, or response

sluggish healing

sluggishly adverb

sluggishness noun