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Meaning of callous
The primary meaning of the word "callous" is being uncaring or unfeeling.
Etymology of callous
The word "callous" originates from the Latin "callus," meaning "hard skin" or "callus," and the Latin "callere," meaning "to harden" or "to thicken"
Historically, the term referred to a thickening of the skin, often as a result of repeated friction or pressure, and later came to be used figuratively to describe a person's emotional insensitivity or hardness
Synonyms
insensitive
harsh
cruel
heartless
ruthless
merciless
brutal
unfeeling
unsympathetic
uncaring
indifferent
unemotional
cold
hard
obdurate
stubborn
obstinate
inconsiderate
thoughtless
inhumane
barbarous
savage
pitiless
remorseless
unkind
unforgiving
uncharitable
impassive
stoic
apathetic
indifferent
callous
frigid
icy
glacial
frosty
chilly
aloof
distant
reserved
unresponsive
unsensitive
impassive
numbed
anesthetized
desensitized
hardened
toughened
Definitions
- Having or showing no emotion or sympathy, especially in a situation where it is expected or appropriate
- Having a harsh or unfeeling quality, often in a way that is considered unacceptable or unpleasant
- Lacking in emotional sensitivity or feeling, often in a way that is considered shocking or disturbing
Usage Examples
- The callous remark made by the politician sparked widespread outrage and criticism
- After years of working in the emergency room, the nurse had become callous to the sight of blood and suffering
- The company's callous decision to lay off hundreds of employees without warning was widely condemned
Antonyms
compassionate
sympathetic
empathetic
kind
gentle
caring
sensitive
tender
merciful
humane
charitable
generous
warm
affectionate
concerned
solicitous
considerate
thoughtful
feeling
emotional
passionate
fervent
enthusiastic
excited
eager
soft
mild
moderate
lenient
forgiving
tolerant
understanding
patient
long-suffering