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

Westlake makes the first bucket of the half but can't capitalize on a sluggish start for Lancaster. —American-Statesman Staff, Austin American Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026

Despite a sluggish start with just six first-quarter points, the Bruins dominated the second half, shooting 54% overall to maintain their conference-best record. —Marisa Ingemi, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026

Seeking safety Above-target inflation and a sluggish labor market also confuses the picture for investors. —Sarah Min, CNBC, 6 Mar. 2026

The government pledged to support the sluggish domestic economy and spur more consumer spending, but did not announce any major new stimulus. —Elaine Kurtenbach, Chicago Tribune, 5 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