adj.
Pronunciation: ( ˌ )im- ' pa-siv
Function: adjective
Date: 1605
1 a archaic : unsusceptible to pain b : unsusceptible to physical feeling : INSENSIBLE c : unsusceptible to or destitute of emotion : APATHETIC
2 : giving no sign of feeling or emotion : EXPRESSIONLESS
– im · pas · sive · ly adverb
– im · pas · sive · ness noun
– im · pas · siv · i · ty \ ˌ im- ˌ pa- ' si-v ə -t ē \ noun
synonyms IMPASSIVE , STOIC , PHLEGMATIC , APATHETIC , STOLID mean unresponsive to something that might normally excite interest or emotion. IMPASSIVE stresses the absence of any external sign of emotion in action or facial expression <met the news with an impassive look>. STOIC implies an apparent indifference to pleasure or especially to pain often as a matter of principle or self-discipline <was resolutely stoic even in adversity>. PHLEGMATIC implies a temperament or constitution hard to arouse <a phlegmatic man unmoved by tears>. APATHETIC may imply a puzzling or deplorable indifference or inertness <charitable appeals met an apathetic response>. STOLID implies an habitual absence of interest, responsiveness, or curiosity < stolid workers wedded to routine>.