passivity

[ pa-siv-i-tee ]

/ pæˈsɪv ɪ ti /

Also pas·sive·ness

[pas-iv-nis] /ˈpæs ɪv nɪs/. the state or condition of being passive.

chemical inactivity, especially the resistance to corrosion of certain metals when covered with a coherent oxide layer.

Origin of passivity

First recorded in 1650–60; passive + -ity

The first debate moved the polls because Obama, through his passivity, allowed Romney to shine.

Obama Wins Second Debate, But Romney Scores With Centrist, Likable Storyline |Peter Beinart |October 17, 2012 |DAILY BEAST
Layoff seems to be the most commonly used word despite—or maybe because of—a passivity that cheats the impact of the experience.

The Unemployed Finally Speak Out: D.W. Gibson’s ‘Not Working’ |D.W. Gibson |June 19, 2012 |DAILY BEAST
These historical warnings, however, should not become a justification for passivity.

Our Next Step in the Middle East |Jeremi Suri |October 8, 2011 |DAILY BEAST
In fact, his passivity has called Ken's very existence into question.

How Ken Won Barbie's Heart Back |Danielle Friedman |February 14, 2011 |DAILY BEAST

Moreover, she blames the coalition for months of passivity, failing to attack the insurance industry.

The Netroots Take the Gloves Off |Art Levine |October 31, 2009 |DAILY BEAST
He seized her hand, and then volition seemed to leave her, and she went off into a state of passivity.

Far from the Madding Crowd |Thomas Hardy
Yet it pleased, it somewhat relieved, his kinsman to see his passivity as not a little foolish.

The Tragic Muse |Henry James
Alspaugh's blundering in bringing the company into line awakened this ire from a passivity to activity.

The Red Acorn |John McElroy
He quaffed deeply and exhaustively that cup of joy in the quiescence and passivity of complete happiness.

The conquest of Rome |Matilde Serao
You scorn their passivity; but it was their nature and their merit to be passive.

New Grub Street |George Gissing