Heavy-limbed

Describing a person or animal whose limbs feel weighty, sluggish, and difficult to move, often indicating fatigue, weariness, or a lack of energy. This condition can be caused by physical exertion, illness, or a general sense of lethargy. It can also refer to the deliberate slowing of movement for effect or a sense of ponderousness. A heavy-limbed state impedes agility and grace, resulting in deliberate or labored motion. The term often evokes a feeling of being weighed down or held back.

Heavy-limbed meaning with examples

• After the grueling hike, Sarah sank onto the porch swing, her heavy-limbed body aching with exhaustion. Each movement was a monumental effort, and she could barely lift her arms to push the creaking swing. The setting sun cast long shadows, mirroring her heavy, tired state.
• The old draft horse, known for its gentle temperament, moved with a heavy-limbed gait through the meadow. He was growing old, and age weighed him down as he slowly lowered his massive frame to graze the new grass. His slow, deliberate steps revealed his weary state.
• As the actor portrayed the heartbroken king, he adopted a heavy-limbed walk, moving with slow, deliberate steps to convey grief and loss. He wanted to show the weight of the crown felt physically on his shoulders and the emotional burden of the character.
• The flu left him feeling heavy-limbed, unable to muster the energy to rise from the bed. His body ached, and a simple trip to the bathroom felt like an epic journey. Even the simplest tasks required immense effort, leaving him in a stupor.