Definition of the word sedentary

The word "sedentary" has its roots in the Latin words "sedere," meaning "to sit," and the suffix "-ary," which forms an adjective. In English, "sedentary" was first used in the 15th century to describe a person who sits or is seated for a long time. Initially, the term was used to describe people in occupations such as judges, scholars, and scribes who spent most of their time sitting. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include people who are inactive or do not engage in physical activity. Today, "sedentary" is often used to describe lifestyles characterized by a lack of physical activity, such as those who spend most of their time sitting in front of a computer or watching TV. Despite its origins in describing people who sit for work or study, the word "sedentary" now carries connotations of inactivity and potential health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle.