Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

acedia

Noun
ə-ˈsē-dē-ə
Definition
A state of restlessness and inability to concentrate due to spiritual or mental fatigue.
Examples
  • After weeks of staring at the same project, she succumbed to acedia and found it hard to motivate herself.
  • The monastic community spoke of acedia as a temptation that distracts one from their spiritual path.
  • He realized that his feelings of acedia were affecting his work and relationships.
Meaning
Acedia often refers to a lack of care or concern over one’s duties or commitments, typically associated with a feeling of ennui or boredom.
Synonyms
  • apathy
  • listlessness
  • ennui
  • indifference