halfhearted

[haf-hahr-tid, hahf-]

adjective

1. having or showing little enthusiasm.

   a halfhearted attempt to work.

   Synonyms: perfunctory, cool, cold, uninterested, indifferent
   Antonyms: enthusiastic

Other Word Forms

• halfheartedly adverb
• halfheartedness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of halfhearted¹

First recorded in 1605–15; half + heart + -ed ³

Example Sentences

Let your relative choose the latest halfhearted Hallmark movie clone?

From Salon

But the filmmakers only halfheartedly commit to exploring these emotions, reducing her feelings to a plot twist inserted to supply a bit of conflict.

From Los Angeles Times

A few brief, halfhearted laughs gave way to stale air, where the jest hung heavily as the group took mental stock of my presence.

From Salon

The governor’s press office posted a notice suggesting that Musk’s departures from California were only halfhearted.

From Los Angeles Times

Samir took a few halfhearted steps in chase, but the camel surprised everyone with its sudden vigor.

From Literature

Related Words

• lackluster 
• listless 
• lukewarm 
• perfunctory 
• tepid