Which word describes an individual who lacks energy and enthusiasm?

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Study for the SAT Vocabulary 2025 Test. Master vocabulary with flashcards and questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The word "listless" effectively describes someone who lacks energy and enthusiasm. When a person is listless, they exhibit a sense of lethargy or disinterest, often appearing inactive or apathetic. This term conveys a state of being without motivation or vigor, which aligns precisely with the idea of lacking energy and enthusiasm.

In contrast, "vibrant," "effusive," and "dynamic" all connotate high energy and enthusiasm. A vibrant individual is full of life and vitality, an effusive person expresses feelings in an unrestrained or heartfelt manner, and a dynamic person displays persistent change or activity. Thus, these alternatives do not fit the definition of lacking energy or enthusiasm as "listless" does.