Insensitive

/ɪnˈsɛnsɪtɪv/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
lacking sensitivity or concern for the feelings of others; unfeeling.
His insensitive remarks during the meeting hurt many of his colleagues.
not responsive to stimuli; lacking physical sensitivity.
The patient was found to have an insensitive reaction to pain in that area.
not affected by or showing no reaction to something.
She appeared insensitive to the criticism directed at her performance.

Etymology

From in- meaning 'not' + sensitive.

Common Phrases and Expressions

insensitive to
Not aware or considerate of others' feelings.
insensitive remark
A comment that ignores the feelings of others.
emotionally insensitive
Lacking emotional awareness or empathy.

Related Words

sensitivity
The quality of being sensitive; the capacity to respond emotionally.
sensibility
The ability to appreciate and respond to complex emotional or aesthetic influences.
empathy
The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

Slang Meanings

Cold-hearted
He's so cold-hearted, he didn't even flinch at the bad news.
Stone-cold
She's stone-cold when it comes to other people's problems.