spiritless

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective spiritless differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of spiritless are lackadaisical, languid, languorous, and listless. While all these words mean "lacking energy or enthusiasm," spiritless refers to a lack of animation or vigor that gives one's actions and words life.

a spiritless recital of the poem

When might lackadaisical be a better fit than spiritless?

In some situations, the words lackadaisical and spiritless are roughly equivalent. However, lackadaisical implies a carefree indifference marked by half-hearted efforts.

lackadaisical college seniors pretending to study

When can languid be used instead of spiritless?

The words languid and spiritless are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, languid refers to an unwillingness or inability to exert oneself due to fatigue or physical weakness.

was depressed and languid for weeks after surgery

When could languorous be used to replace spiritless?

The words languorous and spiritless can be used in similar contexts, but languorous suggests a dreamy boredom and delicacy that avoids unnecessary activity.

languorous cats lying in the sun

In what contexts can listless take the place of spiritless?

Although the words listless and spiritless have much in common, listless suggests a lack of interest caused by physical weakness or dissatisfied boredom.

listless hospital patients
listless children flipping through picture books on a rainy day

Thesaurus Entries Near spiritless

Cite this Entry

“Spiritless.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spiritless. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on spiritless

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!