218 Another Word for Idle? – Idle Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say idle differently? Here are other words for idle and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of idle

The primary meaning of the word "idle" is not working or being inactive.

Etymology of idle

The word "idle" has its roots in Old English "idol" or "idil", which meant "empty" or "void", and is related to the Old Norse word "idill", also meaning "empty" or "idle".
The word has been used in English since the 9th century to describe something or someone that is not being used or is inactive.
Over time, the meaning of the word has expanded to include connotations of laziness or lack of motivation.

Synonyms

inactive inert dormant stagnant sluggish lethargic lazy indolent slothful languid listless apathetic indifferent unmotivated unproductive fruitless useless ineffective inefficient unavailing purposeless aimless pointless hollow empty vacant unfilled unoccupied unemployed free available spare vacant unemployed laid off on leave resting relaxing recreating loafing lounging dawdling procrastinating delaying putting off inactive sedentary stationary motionless still quiet inactive passive unengaged disengaged.

Definitions

  • Not working or being inactive, especially because there is no work to do or because someone is being lazy.
  • Not in use or operation, especially because something is broken or because there is no need for it.
  • (of a person) not having a job or any regular activity.

Usage Examples

  • The factory has been idle for months due to a lack of orders.
  • She spent the day idle, lounging on the beach and reading a book.
  • The computer has been idle for hours, waiting for someone to use it.

Antonyms

active busy engaged employed occupied working productive efficient effective motivated driven diligent industrious hardworking tireless energetic lively dynamic purposeful meaningful useful valuable fruitful successful thriving flourishing bustling vibrant vivacious zealous enthusiastic dedicated committed passionate fervent ardent.

Related Adjectives

idle inactive inert dormant stagnant sluggish lethargic lazy indolent slothful languid listless apathetic indifferent unmotivated unproductive fruitless useless ineffective inefficient unavailing purposeless aimless pointless hollow empty vacant unfilled unoccupied unemployed free available spare vacant sedentary stationary motionless still quiet passive unengaged disengaged.

Related Nouns

idleness inactivity dormancy stagnation lethargy laziness indolence sloth apathy indifference unemployment vacancy emptiness void stillness quiet inaction inertia listlessness languor lassitude torpor somnolence repose rest relaxation recreation leisure amusement entertainment diversion distraction hobby pastime pursuit interest activity occupation employment job work task duty responsibility.

Related Verbs

idle laze loaf lounge dawdle procrastinate delay put off neglect ignore disregard abstain refrain desist cease stop halt pause rest relax recreate amuse entertain divert distract indulge pamper coddle spoil waste squander fritter dissipate languish flag slacken slow decelerate decrease diminish reduce.
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