zombie out

idiom

Meaning

To become listless, vacant, or unresponsive.

Origin

first recorded 20th c.

First attested in 1981. From zombie + out. Compare the earlier adjective zombied-out (1976).

Examples

SIMPLE

I like to zombie out in front of the television after work.

CONTEXTUAL

After a long week of studying for exams, I just want to zombie out on the couch all weekend.

COMPLEX

Exhausted by the relentless pace of the city, he would often zombie out during his commute, staring blankly at the passing scenery until his stop arrived.

Anchors to

zombie

Last updated April 17, 2026