unresponsive
UK: ˌʌnrɪˈspɒnsɪv | US: ˌʌnrɪˈspɑːnsɪv
adj. not reacting or responding to stimuli, communication, or attempts to engage
adj. lacking sensitivity or awareness; indifferent
The word "unresponsive" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the root "respons" (from Latin "respondere," meaning "to answer") and the suffix "-ive" (Latin "-ivus," forming adjectives). The term evolved from the idea of "not answering" to its modern sense of lacking reaction or engagement. The logical progression reflects a shift from literal verbal response to broader behavioral or physiological non-reactivity.
The patient remained unresponsive despite repeated attempts to wake him.
Her unresponsive attitude made teamwork difficult.
The government was criticized for being unresponsive to citizens' needs.
The device became unresponsive after the software update.
He stared at the email, unresponsive to the urgency of the situation.