What is the meaning, origin and usage of word ‘Sedentary’?

Meaning: This is an adjective referring to what is characterised by much sitting and little physical exercise.

Origin: The origin of the word lies in the Latin verb sedere, which means 'to sit’. This root word produced two Latin adjectives: sedens, which is quite common in Latin and just means 'sitting', and sedentarius, which is rarer and has the more specific meaning of 'tending to sit around a lot’. These words found their way into English as sedent and sedentary respectively. However, sedent is used rarely while sedentary has come into its own as we find ourselves increasingly in need of a word that describes our tendency to sit down and stare at a screen all day.

Usage: We can ensure ours is not a sedentary job.

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