[in.ert] adj [L inert-, iners unskilled, idle, fr. in- + art-, ars skill--more at arm] (1647) 1: lacking the power to move
2: very slow to move or act: sluggish
3: deficient in active properties; esp: lacking a usual or anticipated chemical or biological action syn see inactive -- inert n -- in.ert.ly adv -- in.ert.ness n