# sluggish

/ˈsɫəɡɪʃ/ (US) · /slˈʌɡɪʃ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sluggish
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

moving or reacting more slowly than usual. You use this when you feel tired or when a system, like a computer or the economy, is not working fast.

For teachers: characterised by a lack of energy, speed, or alertness. Often describes physical states, economic performance, or mechanical systems.

## Examples

- I feel a bit sluggish after that heavy lunch.
- The technician investigated why the server was sluggish during peak hours.
- Economists expressed concern over the sluggish growth in the manufacturing sector, which has failed to recover despite significant government intervention.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'feel', 'become', or 'remain'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.