What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
estive
Example
The desert tortoise goes into an estive state during the hot summer months. [estive: adjective]
Example
The plants in the garden become estive during the dry season, conserving energy until the rains return. [estive: noun]
torpid
Example
The bear was torpid during the winter months, sleeping in its den. [torpid: adjective]
Example
After a long day at work, I felt torpid and didn't want to do anything. [torpid: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Torpid is more commonly used than estive in everyday language. Torpid is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while estive is less common and is mainly used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between estive and torpid?
Both estive and torpid are formal words that are typically used in scientific or technical contexts. However, torpid is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.