How Do You Spell INERT?

Pronunciation: [ɪnˈɜːt] (IPA)

The word "inert" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ɪˈnɜːt/. The first letter "i" is pronounced as "ih" like the "i" in "sit". The second and third letters "n" and "e" are pronounced as "n" and "er" like the "er" in "her". The fourth letter "t" is pronounced as "t" like the "t" in "top". Overall, the word "inert" refers to something lacking the ability to move or act and is a commonly used term in various fields including physics, chemistry, and medicine.

INERT Meaning and Definition

  1. Inert is an adjective that describes an object, substance, or person that lacks the ability or tendency to move, react, or change. It refers to a state of being inactive, motionless, or unresponsive. An inert object typically remains still or stationary unless it is acted upon by an external force. In chemistry, an inert substance refers to a substance that does not readily undergo chemical reactions or interact with other substances. This property is often attributed to elements or compounds that have completely filled electron shells, rendering them stable and unlikely to form bonds with other elements.

    Inert can also describe a person who exhibits a lack of energy, motivation, or interest in their surroundings. It suggests a passive or non-participatory attitude, in which one does not take initiative or engage actively in their environment. In a social context, an inert individual may be unresponsive to stimuli, showing little emotion or enthusiasm.

    Furthermore, the term inert is commonly used metaphorically to describe ideas or concepts that have lost their impact, leading to a lack of development, progress, or change. It implies stagnancy or a resistance to growth, adaptation, or innovation.

    Overall, inert characterizes a state of inactivity, immobility, or unresponsiveness in the physical, chemical, emotional, or intellectual realms.

  2. 1. Slow in action, sluggish. 2. Having no therapeutic action, noting a drug.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. Without the power of moving itself, or of active resistance to motion impressed; slow to act; sluggish.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for INERT

Etymology of INERT

The word "inert" originated from the Latin word "iners", which means "unskilled" or "inactive". It is derived from the combination of the prefix "in-", meaning "not", and the root "ars", which denotes "skill" or "activity". Over time, "iners" evolved into the Old French word "inert", eventually entering the English language in the 17th century with the same meaning of lacking energy, power, or motion.

Similar spelling words for INERT

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: