Synonyms of lethargy

lethargy

noun

ˈle-thər-jē 

as in boredom

physical or mental inertness

the doctor suspected that the patient's depression and lethargy were a result of seasonal affective disorder

Synonyms & Similar Words

• boredom
• stupor
• lassitude
• torpor
• languor
• fatigue
• listlessness
• indifference
• laziness
• malaise
• sleepiness
• hebetude
• inaction
• narcosis
• idleness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• vigor
• vitality
• vivacity
• enthusiasm
• eagerness
• ambition
• vim
• enterprise
• spiritedness
• keenness

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun lethargy contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lethargy are languor, lassitude, stupor, and torpor. While all these words mean "physical or mental inertness," lethargy implies such drowsiness or aversion to activity as is induced by disease, injury, or drugs.

months of lethargy followed my accident

When would languor be a good substitute for lethargy?

The words languor and lethargy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, languor suggests inertia induced by an enervating climate or illness or love.

languor induced by a tropical vacation

When is lassitude a more appropriate choice than lethargy?

The words lassitude and lethargy can be used in similar contexts, but lassitude stresses listlessness or indifference resulting from fatigue or poor health.

a depression marked by lassitude

Where would stupor be a reasonable alternative to lethargy?

Although the words stupor and lethargy have much in common, stupor implies a deadening of the mind and senses by shock, narcotics, or intoxicants.

lapsed into an alcoholic stupor

When is it sensible to use torpor instead of lethargy?

The meanings of torpor and lethargy largely overlap; however, torpor implies a state of suspended animation as of hibernating animals but may suggest merely extreme sluggishness.

a once alert mind now in a torpor

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of lethargy

Thyroid hormones drop, causing fatigue and lethargy, and reproductive hormones dip, which can lower libido and halt menstrual periods. —Michal Ruprecht, NPR, 29 July 2025

Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, lethargy and loss of appetite. —Lauren Brensel, Sun Sentinel, 21 July 2025

Zoo Miami’s beloved pygmy hippopotamus, Aubergine, got some extra care this week after showing signs of lethargy and a drop in appetite. —Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 19 July 2025

The signs of a dog that is overheating include unusually excess panting and rapid breathing, drooling, lethargy or disorientation, and if their gums are bright red. —Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 6 July 2025