What are the meaning, origin and usage of the word torpor?

Torpor

Meaning:

Torpor is a state of physical/mental inactivity or lethargy Torpor appears to be an involuntary state that one enters into as the conditions dictate. The term can also refer to the time a hibernator spends at low body temperature, lasting days to weeks.

Origin:

The term is a noun and it comes from the Latin torpere meaning “be numb, inactive or sluggish”. Its first-known use was in the 13th Century Middle English when it referred to intellectual lethargy. The term resurfaced in the early 17th Century to refer to both mental and physical sluggishness.

Example

Lulled by the gentle breeze and soothing music. I drifted into a deep torpor.

Picture Credit : Google

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