Definition

1. Noun:
   • A state of physical and mental inactivity, characterized by sluggishness, lethargy, and a lack of energy or alertness.
   • A state of suspended or reduced physiological activity, often as a survival mechanism in some animals (e.g., hibernation).

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The intense heat induced a state of torpor in the entire village.
  • After the large meal, he sank into a pleasant torpor.
  • Bears enter a state of torpor during the winter months.

Advanced Usage

• "to sink/fall into a torpor": to gradually enter a state of inactivity or lethargy.
  • The monotonous lecture caused the students to fall into a torpor.
• "to rouse/arouse from torpor": to awaken or stimulate someone out of a state of inactivity.
  • The loud alarm finally roused him from his torpor.

Variants and Related Words

• Torpid (adj): being in a state of torpor; sluggish, apathetic.
  • The torpid alligator lay motionless in the sun.
• Torpidity (n): the quality or state of being torpid.

Synonyms

• Lethargy: a lack of energy and enthusiasm.
• Stupor: a state of near-unconsciousness or insensibility.
• Sluggishness: slow-moving or inactive.
• Dormancy: a state of suspended biological activity.

Antonyms

• Alertness: the quality of being vigilant and quick to respond.
• Vigor: physical strength and good health.
• Activity: the state of being active.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• A state of torpor: This is the standard phrase to describe the condition.
  • The economy remained in a state of torpor for several quarters.

Noun

1. inactivity resulting from lethargy and lack of vigor or energy
2. a state of motor and mental inactivity with a partial suspension of sensibility
   • he fell into a deep torpor