sluggish

adjective

slug·​gish ˈslə-gish 

1

: averse to activity or exertion : indolent

also : torpid

2

: slow to respond (as to stimulation or treatment)

3

a

: markedly slow in movement, flow, or growth

b

: economically inactive or slow

sluggishly adverb

sluggishness noun

Synonyms of sluggish

• slow
• leisurely
• lagging

Examples of sluggish in a Sentence

The game picked up after a sluggish start.

the sluggish pace of the project is worrisome

Recent Examples on the Web

The United States economy grew at a solid pace over the first three months of 2026, rebounding from sluggish performance at the end of last year, a government report on Thursday showed. —Max Zahn, ABC News, 30 Apr. 2026

The Iran conflict has increased energy prices, which could lead to a sluggish economic growth. —Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 29 Apr. 2026

Stocks were drifting higher following an initial sluggish start to the week. —Jeff Marks, CNBC, 27 Apr. 2026

Wonky, Cartoon Network-type flourishes, bright streams of sustained melody, hypnotically sluggish 808s. —Olivier Lafontant, Pitchfork, 27 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sluggish

adjective

slug·​gish ˈsləg-ish 

: slow in movement or reaction by habit or condition

sluggishly adverb

sluggishness noun

Medical Definition

sluggish

adjective

slug·​gish ˈsləg-ish 

: markedly slow in movement, progression, or response

sluggish healing

sluggishly adverb

sluggishness noun