Langimage
English

insensibility

|in/sen/si/bil/i/ty|

C1

🇺🇸

/ɪnˌsɛnsəˈbɪləti/

🇬🇧

/ɪnˌsɛnsɪˈbɪlɪti/

lack of sensation or emotion

Etymology
Etymology Information

'insensibility' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'insensibilitas,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'sensibilis' meant 'sensitive.'

Historical Evolution

'insensibilitas' transformed into the Old French word 'insensibilité,' and eventually became the modern English word 'insensibility' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'lack of physical sensation,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lack of emotional response or consciousness.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the state of being without sensation or consciousness.

After the accident, he lay in a state of insensibility.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

lack of emotional response or sensitivity.

Her insensibility to the suffering of others was shocking.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/16 22:21