adj.
Pronunciation: in- ' di-f ə rnt, -f( ə -)r ə nt
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin indifferent-, indifferens, from in- + different-, differens, present participle of differre to be different ― more at DIFFER
Date: 14th century
1 : marked by impartiality : UNBIASED
2 a : that does not matter one way or the other b : of no importance or value one way or the other
3 a : marked by no special liking for or dislike of something < indifferent about which task he was given> b : marked by a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern for something : APATHETIC < indifferent to suffering and poverty>
4 : being neither excessive nor inadequate : MODERATE <hills of indifferent size>
5 a : being neither good nor bad : MEDIOCRE <does indifferent work> b : being neither right nor wrong
6 : characterized by lack of active quality : NEUTRAL <an indifferent chemical>
7 a : not differentiated < indifferent tissues of the human body> b : capable of development in more than one direction especially : not yet embryologically determined
– in · dif · fer · ent · ly adverb
synonyms INDIFFERENT , UNCONCERNED , INCURIOUS , ALOOF , DETACHED , DISINTERESTED mean not showing or feeling interest. INDIFFERENT implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice < indifferent to the dictates of fashion>. UNCONCERNED suggests a lack of sensitivity or regard for others' needs or troubles < unconcerned about the homeless>. INCURIOUS implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness < incurious about the world>. ALOOF suggests a cool reserve arising from a sense of superiority or disdain for inferiors or from shyness < aloof from his coworkers>. DETACHED implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness <observed family gatherings with detached amusement>. DISINTERESTED implies a circumstantial freedom from concern for personal or especially financial advantage that enables one to judge or advise without bias <judged by a panel of disinterested observers>.