Inactive
/ɪnˈæktɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsNot doing anything; not functioning or operating.
/ɪnˈæktɪv/
Not engaging in activity; not moving or operating.
The volcano has been inactive for centuries.
💡 Simply: Imagine your pet cat lying on the couch all day. It's not running, playing, or doing anything – it's inactive! It's a state of not doing anything.
👶 For kids: Not doing anything, like when you're resting.
More Examples
Due to the injury, she had to remain inactive for several months.
The software is currently inactive.
How It's Used
"The patient remained inactive for several weeks after the surgery."
"The company's website has been inactive for several months."
Not participating or taking action.
/ɪnˈæktɪv/
Not tending or inclined to take part; not participating.
The club's members had become inactive.
💡 Simply: Like someone who doesn't join in the games at recess, they are inactive in the activity going on. They are not taking part.
👶 For kids: Not joining in or helping.
More Examples
He was criticized for being politically inactive.
She was inactive in the planning process.
How It's Used
"He was inactive in community affairs."
"The political party's local chapter has been inactive for years."
From Latin *in-* (not) + *actus* (done, acted), from the verb *agere* (to do, act).
The term 'inactive' has been used in English since the late 17th century, initially to describe something not in operation.
Memory tip
Imagine someone sitting still – not active – INACTIVE.