indifference

noun

in·​dif·​fer·​ence in-ˈdi-f(ə-)rən(t)s 

-fərn(t)s

1

: the quality, state, or fact of being indifferent

2

a

: absence of compulsion to or toward one thing or another

b

archaic : lack of difference or distinction between two or more things

Synonyms

• disregard

Examples of indifference in a Sentence

She was amazed that some people could watch the trial with indifference.

She watched them with a cool indifference.

Recent Examples on the Web

Some have responded with indifference; in April, Lithgow told U.K.'s Sunday Times that Rowling was not the factor holding him back from joining the production. —Mekishana Pierre, EW.com, 7 Aug. 2025

The Bradleys have said that in the days after Amy went missing, they were met with resistance and indifference from cruise officials. —Sarah Jones, People.com, 30 July 2025

In the 1980s and ’90s, when structural violence and institutional indifference surrounded many Black communities like a moat, here was a young Black man being raised in love — secure, seen, and believed in. —Jack Hill, Baltimore Sun, 26 July 2025

Presidents Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman had proposed national health insurance, only to see opposition from the American Medical Association and indifference by Republican leaders kill it. —Time, 23 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for indifference

• difference

Kids Definition

indifference

noun

in·​dif·​fer·​ence in-ˈdif-ərn(t)s 

-ˈdif-(ə-)rən(t)s

1

: lack of feeling for or against something

2

: lack of importance

a matter of indifference to them

Medical Definition

indifference

noun

in·​dif·​fer·​ence in-ˈdif-ərn(t)s, -ˈdif-(ə-)rən(t)s 

: the quality, state, or fact of being indifferent

a schizophrenic reaction accompanied by apathy and indifference