sedentary
SED-uhn-tair-ee
/ˈsɛdəntɛri/
Tending to spend much time seated; somewhat inactive.
Often used in a health context to describe a lack of exercise, or in anthropology to describe settled societies.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'sedentarius', from 'sedere' (to sit). It’s the same root that gives us 'sediment' (stuff that sits at the bottom) and 'president' (one who sits at the front).
Word relationships
- stationary: Stationary means not moving at all; sedentary means sitting down a lot.
- active: Engaging in physical activity.
Commonly confused with
- settled: Settled means having a home; sedentary means the physical act of sitting or staying still.
Word family
- sedentariness (noun): The state of being sedentary.
Collocations
- sedentary lifestyle
- sedentary job
- sedentary habits
Example sentences
- "A sedentary lifestyle is often linked to an increased risk of heart disease." Health advice.
- "The transition from nomadic to sedentary societies changed the course of human history." Anthropology.
Memory hook
Sedentary = Sitting. The chair-bound life.
When not to use
Don't use for someone who is just 'lazy' for an afternoon; it describes a long-term habit or lifestyle.
Fun facts
- The word 'sedan' (as in a car) also comes from the root 'sedere' because you sit in it.
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