únavu

Únavu is a Czech noun meaning fatigue or weariness. It describes a state of reduced energy resulting from physical or mental effort, illness, lack of sleep, or prolonged stress. The term appears in everyday speech as well as in medical language and can refer to short-term tiredness or a more persistent exhaustion that affects daily functioning.

Etymology and usage notes: Únava is a native Czech word, related to Slovak únava, and originates from a Slavic root for tiredness. It is used in a range of phrases, such as svalová únava (muscle fatigue) or únavový stav (state of fatigue). Common expressions include pociťovat únavu (to feel fatigue) and projev únavy (manifestation of fatigue). In medical contexts, the concept helps describe symptoms that accompany many conditions rather than a single disease.

Medical and health context: Fatigue is a frequent symptom across various illnesses and conditions, including infections, anemia, sleep disorders, depression, and chronic diseases. When fatigue is long-lasting and not clearly explained by recent activity or illness, it may be referred to as chronic fatigue. In Czech medical writing, the term syndrom chronické únavy (chronic fatigue syndrome) is used to describe a complex and poorly understood condition characterized by prolonged fatigue not fully relieved by rest.

See also: Fatigue in other languages; fatigue terminology in Czech; chronic fatigue syndrome. This term is common in both colloquial and clinical discourse, and understanding its usage helps in discussing energy, performance, and health.