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

The idol system, concentrated around what’s known as the big four companies—HYBE, SM, JYP, and YG—is coming off as sluggish and conservative. —Mitch Therieau, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026

The leadership shakeup came after Starboard last month sent a letter to TripAdvisor’s leadership criticizing the stock’s sluggish performance. —Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 27 Mar. 2026

If home sales remain sluggish due to affordability challenges, lenders may begin to compete more aggressively for a smaller pool of borrowers. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 26 Mar. 2026

The rich have been enjoying unprecedented wealth gains, while workers struggle against sluggish wages and a high cost of living. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 26 Mar. 2026

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