listless
UK: ˈlɪstləs | US: ˈlɪstləs
adj. lacking energy or enthusiasm; indifferent
adj. sluggish or languid in movement or demeanor
The word "listless" combines "list," an archaic term meaning "desire" or "inclination" (derived from Old English lystan), with the suffix "-less," meaning "without." Originally, "list" referred to a person's will or eagerness, so "listless" literally meant "without desire" or "lacking motivation." Over time, the term evolved to describe a general state of lethargy or apathy. The shift reflects how language simplifies older, less familiar roots while preserving the core idea of absence (here, of energy or interest).
After the long journey, she felt too listless to join the celebration.
His listless attitude toward work worried his manager.
The heat made the crowd listless and unresponsive.
A listless performance left the audience disappointed.
The medication left him feeling listless for days.