English Dictionary

Definition of “inertia

inertia (ɪnˈɜːʃəPronunciation for inertia;-ʃɪə) 

Definitions

noun

  1. the state of being inert; disinclination to move or act
  2. physics 
    1. the tendency of a body to preserve its state of rest or uniform motion unless acted upon by an external force
    2. an analogous property of other physical quantities that resist change  ⇒ thermal inertia 

Alternative Forms

inˈertial adjective

Usage examples

  • He struggled against gravity and inertia , his scalp prickling with sweat from the exertion, then was able to roll onto his other side.
    Terman, Douglas, Cormorant (1994)
  • This hotelier hit the establishment's inertia with a vengeance.
    India Today (1998)
  • Even 20 I'd find hard to believe given the famous Canadian slack-jawed inertia.
    Ottawa Sun (2003)
  • The problem is more acute in Wales, where inertia has engulfed the game to the point of incoherence.
    Times, Sunday Times (2002)
  • Being inspired to give in such a free and selfless way liberates him from the inertia of self-gratification devoid of caring for others.
    John Gray, MEN ARE FROM MARS, WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS: Get seriously involved with the classic guide to surviving the opposite sex (2002)

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