Meaning of the word idle in English

What does idle mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

idle

US /ˈaɪ.dəl/

UK /ˈaɪ.dəl/

not active or in use

Example:

•

The factory has been idle for months.

•

He spent his idle hours reading books.

Synonym:

inactive unused unoccupied empty vacant

Synonym:

active busy working

lazy; avoiding work

Example:

•

He was criticized for being idle and not contributing to the team.

•

An idle mind is the devil's workshop.

Synonym:

lazy indolent slothful inactive unemployed

Synonym:

industrious diligent hardworking

to spend time doing nothing or being inactive

Example:

•

He would often idle away his afternoons watching TV.

•

The car engine was idling quietly.

Synonym:

lounge loaf dawdle laze loiter

Synonym:

work labor operate

Learn This Word at Lingoland