insensitive
UK: ɪnˈsɛnsɪtɪv | US: ɪnˈsɛnsɪtɪv
adj. lacking sensitivity or awareness; unfeeling or indifferent
adj. not physically responsive to stimuli (e.g., touch, temperature)
insensitive = in<not> + sensitive<responsive>
- in-: A Latin prefix meaning "not" or "opposite of," often used to negate adjectives (e.g., inactive, invisible).
- sensitive: Derived from Latin sensitivus (capable of feeling), from sentire (to feel). The root sens- relates to perception or responsiveness.
Etymology Origin:
The word insensitive emerged in the early 19th century by combining the negating prefix in- with sensitive, which traces back to Latin sentire (to feel). The term originally described physical numbness but expanded to emotional or social unresponsiveness, reflecting its logical progression from literal to figurative meaning.
His insensitive remarks hurt her feelings deeply.
The patient’s foot was insensitive to pain after the nerve damage.
She criticized the movie for its insensitive portrayal of cultural traditions.
Cold weather made his fingers temporarily insensitive.
Leaders should avoid insensitive policies that ignore community needs.