do-nothing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Yet the role of a do-nothing prince consort doesn’t suit the dutiful, and now fiercely faithful, Alfred, and a war of wills—and of the sexes—ensues.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026

As much as Forrest is a know-nothing, except when it comes to knowing what love is, he’s also a do-nothing when it comes to acknowledging systemic wrongdoing.

From Salon • Jul. 7, 2024

Whenever a company descends into dysfunction, often there’s a do-nothing board at the top.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 3, 2023

If anything, many inheritors are shaking off the stereotype of the do-nothing trust fund kid, said Dennis Jaffe, who consults with wealthy families and has collaborated with Dr. Grubman on research.

From New York Times • Oct. 8, 2021

Fain�ant, fā-nyang′, adj. and n. do-nothing, applied esp. to the later Merovingian kings of France, mere puppets, under whom the mayors of the Palace really governed the country.—ns.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 2 of 4: E-M) by Various