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

• 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

After a sluggish performance in the season opener against the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Lakers responded in a big way Friday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves — all without LeBron James, who was sidelined for the second straight game. —Cole Sullivan, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025

Sentiment among investors and consumers could sour as uncertainty looms over the economy, some economists warned, noting a feedback loop as participants brace for further pain and the ensuing pullback triggers sluggish economic performance. —Max Zahn, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2025

Kansas City will see off-and-on rain and cooler-than-usual weather this weekend as a sluggish storm system moves through the region, according to the National Weather Service. —Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2025

Target has been fighting to return to growth after years of sluggish sales. —Alex Harring, CNBC, 24 Oct. 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