Ennui

Ennui

ˌän-ˈwē

Noun

  • A feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction; boredom.

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“By day three of lying on the beach, their vacation excitement turned into ennui.”

“After quitting her job without a plan, she felt more ennui than freedom.”

“He scrolled for hours out of pure ennui, not out of interest in any certain topic.”

Word Origin

French, mid-17th century

Why this word?

“Ennui” is a French loanword, but the meaning has shifted from its origin. In Old French, “enui” meant “annoyance,” and in English the usage is closer to “boredom.” Someone feeling ennui is dissatisfied with their situation and exhausted by their boredom. That feeling may be annoying, but it doesn’t quite mean “annoyance.” “Ennui” is most often used as a noun, but it also can be a transitive verb, meaning “to inflict with ennui” (essentially “to bore someone”). 

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Partita

pärˈtēdə