heartless

UK: ˈhɑːtləs | US: ˈhɑːrtləs

Definition

  1. adj. lacking kindness or sympathy; cruel

  2. adj. showing no courage or enthusiasm (archaic)

Structure
heart <organ of emotion>less <without>
Etymology

The word "heartless" combines "heart," symbolizing emotion and compassion in Old English (heorte), with the suffix "-less," meaning "without" (from Old English -lēas). Originally, it could imply lacking courage (heart as a metaphor for bravery), but its modern meaning emphasizes emotional coldness. The shift reflects how "heart" evolved culturally to represent empathy rather than mere vitality.

Examples

  1. The villain's heartless actions shocked the audience.

  2. She gave him a heartless stare and walked away.

  3. Abandoning pets is a heartless act.

  4. His heartless remarks hurt her deeply.

  5. The dictator ruled with heartless efficiency.