adj.
Pronunciation: p ə r- ' f ə ŋ (k)-t( ə -)r ē
Function: adjective
Etymology: Late Latin perfunctorius, from Latin perfungi to accomplish, get through with, from per- through + fungi to perform ― more at PER- , FUNCTION
Date: 1593
1 : characterized by routine or superficiality : MECHANICAL <a perfunctory smile>
2 : lacking in interest or enthusiasm
– per · func · to · ri · ly \ -t( ə -)r ə -l ē \ adverb
– per · func · to · ri · ness \ -t( ə -)r ē -n ə s \ noun