callous

UK: ˈkaləs | US: ˈkæləs

Definition

  1. adj. emotionally hardened; unfeeling

  2. adj. (of skin) thickened and hardened

  3. vt. to make or become callous

Structure
call <hardened skin>ous <adjective suffix>call <hardened skin>ous <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "callous" originates from the Latin callosus, meaning "hard-skinned." It initially described physical hardening (e.g., calluses on hands) and later evolved metaphorically to describe emotional insensitivity. The progression reflects a tangible-to-abstract shift, where physical toughness became symbolic of emotional detachment.

Examples

  1. His callous disregard for others' feelings shocked everyone.

  2. Years of manual labor left her hands callous and rough.

  3. The doctor noted a callous patch on the patient's foot.

  4. She grew callous after years of enduring criticism.

  5. The politician's callous remarks sparked public outrage.