Boredom is a feeling that almost everyone has experienced at some point in their lives. It is that feeling of restlessness and dissatisfaction that arises when one has nothing to do or is uninterested in what they are doing. In this article, we will explore the definition, meaning, and associations of the word bored.
Definitions
The Oxford English Dictionary defines bored as “feeling weary and impatient because one is unoccupied or lacks interest in one’s current activity.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “feeling weary and impatient because of a lack of interest, attention, or stimulation.”
Origin
The word bored comes from the Old English word borian, which means “to pierce” or “to stab.” It evolved over time to mean “to make a hole” and eventually came to mean “to make a hole in something until it becomes dull or uninteresting.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of bored is relatively consistent across different dictionaries. It is generally understood to mean feeling restless and uninterested in one’s current activity.
Associations
Boredom is often associated with a lack of stimulation or excitement. It can also be associated with feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Synonyms
Synonyms of bored include disinterested, uninterested, apathetic, indifferent, and listless.
Antonyms
Antonyms of bored include interested, engaged, fascinated, and captivated.
The same root words
The word bored shares a root with the word boring, which means causing a feeling of weariness and restlessness.
Example Sentences
- I’m so bored. There’s nothing to do.
- I can’t concentrate on this book. I’m too bored.
- I’m never bored when I’m with my friends.
- She was bored with her job and wanted to find something more exciting.
- The lecture was so boring that I fell asleep.