Dictionary Entry
idle
adjectiveFind the meaning of the word idle, plus dictionary definition, pronunciation, thesaurus-style synonyms, antonyms, and related vocabulary.
1
Meaning
Dictionary meaning in a clear, student-friendly format.
Not active or in use; doing nothing; without purpose or effect.
Example Sentence
The machine sat idle for weeks because no one ordered new parts.
Usage Note
Use idle to describe machines, people, or periods of time when nothing useful is happening, like an idle phone or idle chatter.