insensitive

adjective

in·​sen·​si·​tive (ˌ)in-ˈsen(t)-s(ə-)tiv 

1

a

: lacking feeling or tact

so insensitive as to laugh at someone in pain

b

: not responsive or susceptible

insensitive to the demands of the public

2

: not physically or chemically sensitive

insensitively adverb

insensitiveness noun

insensitivity

(ˌ)in-ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈti-və-tē 

noun

Synonyms of insensitive

• ruthless
• merciless
• stony
• callous
• abusive

Examples of insensitive in a Sentence

He's just a rude, insensitive jerk.

It was insensitive of her to say that.

Recent Examples on the Web

All said their children and players have never told them of any racist or racially insensitive comments made by Dixon. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Nov. 2026

Rather, a scowling Fernandez is portrayed as racially insensitive. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 30 Oct. 2026

Global celebrities and companies have faced similar backlash in China over comments, imagery, and jokes deemed politically or culturally insensitive. — Jay Ganglani, Fortune, 28 Oct. 2026

Kothari subsequently apologized, calling his language inappropriate and insensitive. — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Rhymes for insensitive

• hypersensitive
• photosensitive
• radiosensitive
• sensitive

Kids Definition

insensitive

adjective

in·​sen·​si·​tive (ˈ)in-ˈsen(t)-sət-iv 

-ˈsen(t)-stiv

: not sensitive

especially : lacking feeling

insensitively adverb

insensitivity

(ˌ)in-ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

noun