Apathetic is a term that is often used to describe someone who lacks interest, enthusiasm, or concern about something. It is a word that can be used to describe a person, situation, or even a feeling. Understanding the meaning of apathetic can help us to better understand how it is used in different contexts.
Definitions
The term apathetic is defined as a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. It is often used to describe someone who is indifferent or unresponsive to something. Apathy can be seen as a lack of emotion or feeling, and it can be a sign of depression or other mental health issues.
Origin
The word apathetic comes from the Greek word apatheia, which means “without feeling.” It was first used in English in the mid-17th century to describe someone who lacked emotion or feeling.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, apathetic means “having or showing little or no feeling or emotion.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.”
Associations
Apathy can be associated with a lack of motivation or drive. It can also be a symptom of depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. In some cases, apathy can be a defense mechanism used to protect oneself from emotional pain.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for apathetic include indifferent, uninterested, uncaring, and disinterested.
Antonyms
Antonyms for apathetic include passionate, enthusiastic, concerned, and interested.
The same root words
The root word of apathetic is pathos, which means “feeling” or “emotion.” Other words that share this root include empathy, sympathy, and pathetic.
Example Sentences
- She was apathetic towards the news of her ex-boyfriend’s engagement.
- The students were apathetic about the upcoming test.
- His apathetic attitude towards his job was starting to affect his performance.
- The politician’s apathetic response to the crisis was met with criticism.
- I could tell by her apathetic expression that she wasn’t interested in what I was saying.
Apathetic is a term that is used to describe a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. It can be a symptom of depression or other mental health issues, or it can be a defense mechanism used to protect oneself from emotional pain. Understanding the meaning of apathetic can help us to better understand how it is used in different contexts.