insensitive

[in-sen-si-tiv]

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.

insensitive

/ ɪnˈsɛnsɪtɪv /

adjective

1. lacking sensitivity; unfeeling

2. lacking physical sensation

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

   insensitive to radiation

Other Word Forms

• insensitiveness noun
• insensitivity noun
• insensitively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of insensitive¹

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

Example Sentences

“It is deeply insensitive and distressing to Palestinian students who have lost countless family members to Israel’s violent military campaign and the man-made humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”

From Los Angeles Times

Thus far, the most noteworthy elements of his career have resulted from insensitive or derogatory comments.

From Salon

I think “On the Road” is very much of its time, and readers may have looked past the insensitive things he wrote.

From Salon

"Women's control over their bodies are being taken away in the US and this is kind of insensitive," one user wrote on Instagram.

From BBC

A third perspective, focused on the removal of encampments, portrayed both the alliance and the city as insensitive to homeless people.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• crass 
• heartless 
• uncaring www.thesaurus.com
• unkind 
• unresponsive