A WORD A DAY.

Southland Times, Issue 21196, 24 September 1930, Page 6

A WORD A DAY.

LASSITUDE. This word is used to describe the sense of weariness when the voluntary functions of body and mind seem to be performed with great difficulty, only with great exertion. Our word is derived from the Latin lassus, “tired, wearied.’.’ It is interesting to note the allied forms: the Gothic lats, “slothful”; the Danish lad, “lazy”; the Swedish lat, “lazy, idle”; the German lass, “weary, indolent,” and the English late. All of the above (including lassus) are outgrowths of the weak grade of the Teutonic base let, meaning “let alone,, neglected.” Perhaps here is suggested a cause; then an antidote may be a bit of friendly attention when a co-worker seems to show signs of lassitude. . . .- Las-si-tude is accepted on the first syllable; sound a as in hat, i as in it, u as in use. “Congenial employment is a foe to lassitude.” ' -