Where Does the Word Torpid Come from?

Torpid comes from the Latin word torpere, meaning "numb," which is exactly how torpid things act. A hibernating bear and a caterpillar holed up in a cocoon are two good examples. You might feel torpid sitting in front of the fire after a big meal. The mind, too, can become torpid.

What is the origin of the word torpor?

torpor (n.)

"lethargy, listlessness," c. 1600, from Latin torpor "numbness, sluggishness," from torpere "be numb, be inactive, be dull" (from PIE root *ster- (1) "stiff").

What is meant by torpid?

1a : sluggish in functioning or acting a torpid mind. b : having lost motion or the power of exertion or feeling : numb. c : exhibiting or characterized by torpor : dormant a torpid bird.