Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbɔːr.dəm/

Definitions

1. The state of being bored, often associated with a lack of interest or excitement.
2. A feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction caused by a lack of activity or engagement.

Usage Examples

• She spent the afternoon in boredom, unable to find anything interesting to do.
• After hours of waiting, he was overwhelmed by a sense of boredom.
• He felt a deep boredom as he sat in the lecture with no interest in the topic.

Etymology

The word "boredom" comes from the verb "bore," which originated in the early 18th century, meaning to weary or make someone uninterested. "Bore" itself is derived from the Old French word "aborir," meaning "to weary." The noun "boredom" emerged in the 19th century as a way to describe the mental state caused by prolonged disinterest or lack of stimulation.

Synonyms

• Weariness
• Tedium
• Monotony
• Dissatisfaction
• Listlessness

Antonyms

• Excitement
• Interest
• Engagement
• Enthusiasm
• Stimulation

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• USA: /ˈbɔːr.dəm/
• UK: /ˈbɔː.dəm/
• India: /ˈbɔːr.dəm/

Historical Usage

The concept of boredom has existed for centuries, though the term itself did not become widely used until the 19th century. Early philosophers and writers, such as Blaise Pascal and Søren Kierkegaard, discussed the discomfort of boredom as part of the human experience. In modern times, the term has evolved to represent a psychological state influenced by a lack of engagement in one's surroundings or activities.

Cultural Nuances

Boredom is a universal experience, but its cultural significance can vary. In some cultures, boredom is viewed as a sign of idleness or laziness, while in others, it can be seen as a necessary break from the pressures of life. For example, in some Western cultures, boredom is often seen negatively, leading to a desire for constant stimulation, while in some Eastern traditions, periods of boredom or stillness are encouraged for reflection and mindfulness.

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