VocabDictionary

apathy

/ˈæp.ə.θi/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.

Example Sentences:
  • Widespread voter apathy led to the lowest turnout in decades.
  • She looked at the ruined project with complete apathy.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “apathy”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek word 'apatheia', formed from 'a-' (without) and 'pathos' (suffering, feeling, passion). Originally used in philosophy by the Stoics to describe a state of being unaffected by passions or emotions, the word shifted in modern English to denote a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'a-' meaning 'without' and 'pathos' meaning 'feeling'—so apathy means without any feelings or care.

Frequently Asked Questions About “apathy

1. What is the meaning of “apathy” in English?

In English, apathy (noun) is defined as: “Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.”.

2. How do you use “apathy” in a sentence?

Widespread voter apathy led to the lowest turnout in decades.

3. What are English synonyms of “apathy”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “apathy”?

Derived from the ancient Greek word 'apatheia', formed from 'a-' (without) and 'pathos' (suffering, feeling, passion). Originally used in philosophy by the Stoics to describe a state of being unaffected by passions or emotions, the word shifted in modern English to denote a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.