I. ˈtȯrpə̇d, -ȯ(ə)p- adjective
Etymology: Latin torpidus, from torpēre to be stiff, numb, torpid; akin to Lithuanian tirpti to become stiff, Latin stirps stem of a plant, trunk, stock, lineage, Old English starian to stare — more at stare
1.
a. : having lost motion or the power of exertion or feeling — dormant, numb
b. : sluggish in functioning or acting
a torpid frog
a torpid mind
2. : lacking in energy or vigor : apathetic , dull
the bold and reckless young blood of ten years back was … turned into a torpid , submissive, middle-aged, stout gentleman — W.M.Thackeray
Synonyms: see lethargic
II. noun
( -s )
: a clinker-built eight-oared boat used for the Lent term races at Oxford university