Insensible
Origin
From Old French insensible, from Late Latin insensibilis
Full definition of insensible
Adjective
insensible
- Unable to be perceived by the senses.
- Sir Thomas BrowneTwo small and almost insensible pricks were found upon Cleopatra's arm.
- DrydenThey fall away,
And languish with insensible decay. - Incapable or deprived of physical sensation.
- 1905, w, w:The Case of Miss Elliott Chapter 1, “… Captain Markam had been found lying half-insensible, gagged and bound, on the floor of the sitting-room, his hands and feet tightly pinioned, and a woollen comforter wound closely round his mouth and neck ; whilst Mrs. Markham's jewel-case, containing valuable jewellery and the secret plans of Port Arthur, had disappeared. …â€
- Unable to be understood; unintelligible.
- Not sensible or reasonable; meaningless.
- Sir M. HaleIf it make the indictment be insensible or uncertain, it shall be quashed.
- Incapable of mental feeling; indifferent.
- DrydenLost in their loves, insensible of shame.
- Sir H. WottonAccept an obligation without being a slave to the giver, or insensible to his kindness.
- 1813, Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice, Modern Library Edition (1995), page 138In spite of her deep-rooted dislike, she could not be insensible to the compliment of such a man's affection...
- Incapable of emotional feeling; callous; apathetic.
Derived terms
Synonyms
- (incapable of emotional feeling) insensitive