Meaning & Definition of word "Insensitivity"
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Insensitivity
/ˌɪn səˈsɪtɪvɪti/
noun:
- 1. The quality or state of being insensitive, especially in relation to emotions or feelings.
- Example: His insensitivity to her struggles made her feel utterly alone.
- 2. Lack of awareness or concern for the feelings of others.
- Example: The insensitivity displayed by the management during the crisis angered many employees.
- 3. A state in which someone is unable to feel physical sensations.
- Example: The patient suffered from insensitivity in her fingers due to nerve damage.
Etymology
Derived from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'sensitivity' from Latin 'sensus' meaning 'feeling'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
social insensitivity:
A lack of awareness or consideration for social norms or others' feelings.
emotional insensitivity:
The inability to understand or respond to emotional cues in others.
Related Words
sensitivity:
The quality of being sensitive; the capacity to perceive or feel things.
pulse:
A rhythmic, throbbing sensation indicative of life or activity.
Slang Meanings of insensitivity
Meaning: Cold-hearted
Example Sentence: He can be so cold-hearted about others' problems, it's pure insensitivity.
Meaning: Tone-deaf
Example Sentence: Her comments were so tone-deaf that everyone noticed her insensitivity.