laziness
UK[ˈleɪ.zi.nəs]US[ˈleɪ.zi.nəs]
n
the quality of being unwilling to work or use energy; idleness.
n
the fact of moving or acting slowly.
Morpheme Breakdown
lazy
ness
lazy
adjective
ness
noun suffix
Etymology
the adjective 'lazy' emerged in the late 16th century, with its precise origin debated but likely linked to low german 'lasich' meaning "languid, idle" or old norse 'lasinn' meaning "weary." it describes a disposition towards inactivity. the suffix '-ness' is a native english morpheme from old english '-nes(s)', used to form abstract nouns expressing a state or quality. therefore, 'laziness' literally translates to "the state or quality of being lazy," concretely capturing the abstract concept of habitual idleness or sloth.
Analysis
Structure: lazy (adjective) + ness (noun suffix)
lazy (middle english, of uncertain origin, possibly from low german or old norse, meaning "idle, weary") + ness (old english noun-forming suffix, denoting a state or quality).
Examples
his laziness prevented him from finishing the project on time.
a feeling of laziness overcame her on the warm summer afternoon.
the manager would not tolerate laziness in the workplace.