Meaning & Definition of word "Insensitivity"

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.