Leaden-legged

Describing someone or something whose legs feel heavy, slow, and difficult to move, as if weighted down by lead. This often signifies fatigue, exhaustion, lethargy, or a general lack of energy. The feeling can be both physical, reflecting muscle fatigue, and metaphorical, indicating a state of mental sluggishness or a reluctance to act. It conveys a sense of dragging oneself through a situation, hampered by an unwelcome burden of heaviness and slowness. The phrase emphasizes the impediment to movement and vitality.

Leaden-legged meaning with examples

• After the grueling marathon, the runner felt leaden-legged, barely able to lift his feet as he walked to the recovery tent. Each step was a monumental effort, his muscles screaming in protest. The joy of finishing was overshadowed by sheer physical exhaustion, every movement a heavy, labored affair.
• Following the all-nighter studying for the exam, Sarah felt leaden-legged as she walked to class, barely registering the world around her. Her brain felt equally sluggish, struggling to process even the simplest information. All she wanted to do was collapse and sleep the day away, her body and mind protesting.
• The weary traveler, burdened by luggage and a long journey, found himself leaden-legged upon arriving at his hotel. The thought of unpacking and arranging his belongings seemed overwhelming. He shuffled slowly to the reception desk, yearning for a soft bed and a chance to rest his aching limbs.
• Despite the beautiful sunshine, the students were leaden-legged in the Monday morning class. The holiday weekend was a distant memory, and the looming work ahead cast a shadow over their mood and energy. Their slow pace and sluggish reactions mirrored their collective lack of enthusiasm.