1. (Physics) That property of matter by which it tends when at rest to
remain so, and when in motion to continue in motion, and in the same
straight line or direction, unless acted on by some external force; --
sometimes called vis inertiæ.
2. Inertness; indisposition to motion, exertion, or action; want of
energy; sluggishness.
Men . . . have immense irresolution and inertia.
Carlyle.
3. (Med.) Want of activity; sluggishness; -- said especially of the
uterus, when, in labor, its contractions have nearly or wholly ceased.
Center of inertia. (Mech.) See under Center.
In*er"tion (?), n. Want of activity or exertion; inertness; quietude.
[R.]
These vicissitudes of exertion and inertion of the arterial system
constitute the paroxysms of remittent fever.
E. Darwin.
In*ert"i*tude (?), n. [See Inert.] Inertness; inertia. [R.] Good.
In*ert"ly, adv. Without activity; sluggishly. Pope.
In*ert"ness, n. 1. Want of activity or exertion; habitual indisposition
to action or motion; sluggishness; apathy; insensibility. Glanvill.
Laziness and inertness of mind.
Burke.