impassive
UK: ɪmˈpæsɪv | US: ɪmˈpæsɪv
adj. not showing emotion; calm and composed
adj. unaffected by external stimuli; indifferent
impassive = im<not> + pass<feel/suffer> + ive<adjective suffix>
- im<not>: A prefix of Latin origin meaning "not" or "without," derived from in- (negation).
- pass<feel/suffer>: From Latin pass- (stem of pati, meaning "to suffer" or "to feel").
- ive<adjective suffix>: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating a tendency or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word "impassive" traces back to Latin impassibilis, combining in- (not) + passibilis (capable of feeling/suffering). Over time, it evolved through French influence into English, retaining its core meaning of emotional neutrality. The morpheme pass- reflects the ancient link between suffering and feeling, while im- negates it, creating a vivid contrast—literally "not feeling."
Despite the shocking news, he remained impassive.
Her impassive expression gave no hint of her thoughts.
The judge listened to the testimony with an impassive demeanor.
He faced criticism with an impassive attitude.
The statue stood impassive, untouched by the chaos around it.