A Lackadaisical Quiz

Answer:

'Lackadaisical' has its origins in the phrase 'Alack the day,' which was a way of expressing sorrow or regret. It saw use all the way back to the 17th century, and changed over time to the interjection 'lackaday', and eventually to the more recent (mid-18th century) 'lackadaisical'. And where once it was more about that sentimental feeling, it shifted to include the lazy (of both thought and action).

And here is the list of terms that carry a similar meaning (in alphabetical order). Some reference more the physical lack of energy, while others the mental or emotional.

Apathetic - Showing little or no emotion or interest.
Careless - Not giving sufficient attention or thought.
Enervated - Drained of energy or vitality.
Inattentive - Not paying attention; distracted or unconcerned.
Indifferent - Having no particular interest or concern.
Indolent - Habitually lazy or avoiding activity.
Languid - Weak or faint from illness or fatigue; slow and relaxed.
Languishing - Failing to make progress or be successful; losing vitality.
Languorous - Pleasantly tired or dreamy, but also lacking energy.
Lazy - Unwilling to work or use effort.
Lethargic - Slow and lacking energy or enthusiasm.
Listless - Showing no interest or energy.
Negligent - Failing to take proper care in doing something.
Quiescent - Inactive or dormant, especially temporarily.
Sluggish - Moving slowly or lacking alertness.
Slothful - Extremely lazy or inactive.
Spiritless - Lacking energy or enthusiasm.
Torpid - Mentally or physically inactive.
Unmotivated - Lacking drive or ambition.
Weary - Feeling tired or worn out.

The 'red herrings' included six words that were quite different from the above list:

Ebullient - Overflowing with enthusiasm or excitement; very energetic, not sluggish.
Fastidious - Very attentive to detail; meticulous and careful, the opposite of careless.
Loquacious - Talkative or chatty; energetic and verbal, the opposite of lackadaisical.
Lucid - Clear and easy to understand, often used to describe thought or expression. It implies mental clarity, not sluggishness.
Meticulous - Extremely careful and precise; the opposite of careless or indifferent.
Tenacious - Persistent and determined; very unlike someone who is lackadaisical.