Word Origin & History. late 12c., "indolence, sluggishness," formed from Middle English slou, slowe (see slow (adj.)) + abstract formative -th (2). Replaced Old English slæwð "sloth, indolence." Sense of "slowness, tardiness" is from mid-14c. As one of the deadly sins, it translates Latin accidia. read more
Moderation is the languor and sloth of the soul, Ambition its activity and heat. Mealy-bug is usually a sign of sloth on the part of the gardener. To her well-wishers it seemed as if the people had given itself to sloth and indulgence. read more