Synonyms for

Lifeless

Verb / ˈlaɪflʌs / Another word for lifeless — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Without life or energy; dead or dull.

Synonyms & similar words

exanimate dead inactive dull drab lifelessly spiritless unanimated unfeeling uninspired unresponsive vapid weary lackluster flat boring tedious monotonous tiresome dreary humdrum

Synonyms by register

Formal

inert inanimate unresponsive apathetic

Informal

dead gone out of it flat

Literary

still unbreathing dormant

Antonyms

alive living animate vibrant energetic lively spirited

Common collocations

  • lifeless eyes
  • lifeless body
  • lifeless stare
  • lifeless expression
  • lifeless tone
  • lifeless silence
  • utterly lifeless

Word family

noun lifelessness
adjective lifeless
adverb lifelessly

Usage note

Often used to describe a lack of energy, emotion, or spirit, not just literal absence of life. Can also describe things that are dull or uninteresting.

Example sentences

  1. The lifeless body of the bird lay on the ground.
  2. The party was a lifeless affair with no music or dancing.
  3. The speech was so lifeless that everyone in the audience fell asleep.
  4. The movie was so lifeless that I walked out of the theater.
  5. The old, lifeless tree in the backyard needed to be cut down.

Quotes

  • She was lifeless as a reed, her soul swooning softly as the Abyss welcomed her. - Angela Carter
  • The Bloody Chamber
  • I stood there, feeling the weight of everything I couldn't say resting like a lifeless body on my shoulders. - Leah Raeder

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