Word of the Day - 01/16/26
torpor
/'tɔrpər/(n.): a state of motor and mental inactivity with a partial suspension of sensibility
The bear's torpor during hibernation allowed it to conserve energy through the winter.
(n.): inactivity resulting from lethargy and lack of vigor or energy
After a week of intense work, a feeling of torpor settled over him, making it hard to leave the couch.
Word Origin
The word 'torpor' originates from the Latin word 'torpor', meaning "numbness, stupor, lethargy". This Latin noun is derived from the verb 'torpere', which means "to be numb, to be sluggish".
Words with similar origins include 'torpid', which comes from Latin 'torpidus' (numb, sluggish) and is also derived from 'torpere'. Another related word is 'torpedo', which originally referred to a type of ray fish known for its ability to stun prey, linking back to the sense of numbness or sluggishness from 'torpere'.