The word ‘Weary’ (adjective) describes feeling physically or mentally tired, often after sustained effort, stress, or repetitive routine. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘Weary’ correctly in sentences.
Weary Explained in Depth
A clear guide to the word weary, including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms, plus practical ways to use it in everyday and academic writing.
Meanings of Weary
‘Weary’ refers to feeling tired, worn out, or fatigued—either physically, emotionally, or mentally. It can also imply a sense of boredom or disinterest that builds over time, especially when someone is dealing with repetitive experiences or too much pressure.
Definition
Weary (adjective): feeling or showing tiredness, especially as a result of excessive exertion or lack of rest; lacking enthusiasm or patience.
Etymology
The word ‘Weary’ comes from Old English wērig, meaning “tired, exhausted, miserable.” It is related to Old High German worag (tired) and ultimately traces to Proto-Germanic roots associated with fatigue and suffering from toil. The word has long been used in English to describe not only physical exhaustion, but also the emotional burden of prolonged hardship.
Example Sentences
- She was weary after working a double shift at the hospital.
- After months of troubleshooting the same issue, he gave a weary sigh.
- The travelers looked weary but relieved to reach their destination.
- Weary of the constant back-and-forth, she asked for a clear timeline.
- His weary eyes suggested he hadn’t slept well in days.
Weary Synonyms
Weary Antonyms
FAQs about Weary
Here’s a FAQ-style guide about the word “Weary”.
1. Is ‘weary’ more mental or physical?
‘Weary’ can describe both physical tiredness and mental or emotional fatigue, depending on the context.
2. Can ‘weary’ be used as a verb?
Yes. As a verb, it means to cause someone to become tired or bored (for example, “He wearied of the routine”). The adjective ‘weary’ is more common in everyday usage.
3. What’s the difference between ‘weary’ and ‘exhausted’?
‘Weary’ often suggests ongoing tiredness or a growing lack of patience, while ‘exhausted’ typically emphasizes extreme fatigue after intense effort.
4. Does ‘weary’ always have a negative connotation?
Generally, yes. It usually signals discomfort, diminished energy, or emotional burden, though it can still appear in neutral descriptions of someone’s state.
