insensitive

American  

[in-sen-si-tiv] / ɪnˈsɛn sɪ tɪv /

adjective

1. deficient in human sensibility, acuteness of feeling, or consideration; unfeeling; callous.

   an insensitive person.

2. not physically sensitive.

   insensitive skin.

3. not affected by physical or chemical agencies or influences.

   insensitive to light.

4. not readily responsive or aware.

   insensitive to the needs of the peasants.

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insensitive British  

/ ɪnˈsɛnsɪtɪv /

adjective

1. lacking sensitivity; unfeeling

2. lacking physical sensation

3. not sensitive (to) or affected (by)

   insensitive to radiation

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Other Word Forms

• insensitively adverb
• insensitiveness noun
• insensitivity noun

Etymology

Origin of insensitive

First recorded in 1600–10; in- ³ + sensitive

Example Sentences

Some also accuse Prabowo of being insensitive toward flood victims by promoting the expansion of palm oil plantations - environmental groups say the deforestation caused by that has also worsened the floods.

From BBC

It may feel insensitive or selfish to seek joy when we know so many are hurting, but Thema Bryant, a psychologist and minister at First AME Church in Los Angeles, doesn’t see it that way.

From Los Angeles Times

When a friend is simultaneously grieving and panicking, asking them to run miles by you might seem insensitive.

From MarketWatch

It urged Scottish Labour to challenge the proposal from the UK Labour government, branding them "insensitive to Scotland's distinct needs".

From BBC

Another local farmer, Rob Morgan, has expressed support for Mr Beynon, saying it was "impossible" and "insensitive" to ask him to sell the horses during the winter.

From BBC

Related Words

• crass
• heartless
• uncaring
• unkind
• unresponsive