Apathetic Meaning and Definition
Apathetic
Pronunciation
/əˈpæθɪtɪk/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Lacking concern or enthusiasm; indifferent; uninfluenced by moral or ethical considerations; devoid of passion or interest.
Examples
- The apathetic audience member stared blankly as the performer took the stage.
- The company’s apathetic response to customer complaints led to a loss of trust.
Synonyms
- Ahsene
- Splenetic
Antonyms
- Passionate
- Careful
Etymology
The word “apathetic” comes from the Greek word “apathēs”, meaning “without passion or emotion”, and the Latin suffix “-etic”, which forms adjectives.
Usage Notes
Apathetic is often used to describe someone who lacks enthusiasm or interest in a particular activity or situation. However, it can also be used to describe a lack of concern or empathy for others.
Cultural References
Apathetic has appeared in various cultural references, including literature, music, and film. For example, in the novel “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger, the protagonist Holden Caulfield is described as apathetic towards his peers.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idioms or phrases that include the word “apathetic” include: “feeling apathetic”, “being apathetic towards”, and “showing apathetic behavior”.
Related Words or Phrases
- Indifferent
- Unenthusiastic
- Lethargic
Collocations
- Apathetic attitude
- Apathetic behavior
- Apathetic response
Frequency of Use
Apathetic is a relatively common word in modern language, often used in various contexts, including literature, media, and everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
- Apathitc
- Apatheticly