unroused

Unroused is an adjective used to describe a state of not being awakened or stirred from sleep or a state of inaction. It implies a lack of response to external stimuli that would typically cause someone to wake up or become active. The word can be applied to both literal sleep and figurative states of apathy or inactivity. For instance, a person might be described as unroused if they slept through a loud noise, or a society could be described as unroused if it fails to react to a pressing issue.

The etymology of unroused comes from the prefix "un-" meaning not, and the verb "rouse," which signifies to awaken or stir. Therefore, "unroused" literally means not awakened or not stirred. It suggests a deep or undisturbed state. This can sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying a lack of alertness or a failure to perceive what is happening. However, it can also be neutral, simply describing a profound sleep or a period of calm.

In literature and everyday language, "unroused" is often used to create imagery of deep slumber or a lack of emotional or intellectual engagement. It highlights the contrast between a state of being asleep or inactive and the potential for awakening or action.