indolence

noun

in·​do·​lence ˈin-də-lən(t)s How to pronounce indolence (audio)
Synonyms of indolencenext
: inclination to laziness : sloth

Examples of indolence in a Sentence

a general feeling of indolence usually overtakes them during summer vacation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some part of Baudelaire’s lifelong free-spending and indolence seems to be a direct rebellion against the man, if not outright Freudian jealousy—Charles was an unabashed mama’s boy. Literary Hub, 22 Dec. 2025 The Johnson Administration said the AFDC rewarded indolence, and condoned non-marital child bearing. Stephanie Land, Time, 30 Oct. 2025 Sennott and her costars speak with an irritatingly fake affect, are shallower than a puddle in the desert and prize selfishness, indolence and artifice. Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 30 Oct. 2025 As if my sudden turn to sedentariness were the result of indolence, not infirmity. Lucinda Rosenfeld, New Yorker, 25 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for indolence

Word History

First Known Use

1710, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of indolence was in 1710

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Indolence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indolence. Accessed 3 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

indolence

noun
in·​do·​lence ˈin-də-lən(t)s How to pronounce indolence (audio)
: the quality or state of being indolent : laziness

More from Merriam-Webster on indolence

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