detached

adjective de·tached \di-ˈtacht, dē-\

: not emotional : not influenced by emotions or personal interest

: not joined or connected : separate from another part or thing

Full Definition of DETACHED

: standing by itself : separate, unconnected; especially : not sharing any wall with another building <a detached house>

: exhibiting an aloof objectivity usually free from prejudice or self-interest <a detached observer>

— de·tached·ly \-ˈta-chəd-lē, -ˈtacht-lē\ adverb

— de·tached·ness \-ˈta-chəd-nəs, -ˈtacht-nəs\ noun

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First Known Use of DETACHED

circa 1706

Related to DETACHED

Synonyms: aloof, antisocial, asocial, buttoned-up, cold, cold-eyed, cool, distant, dry, frosty, offish, remote, standoff, standoffish, unbending, unclubbable, unsociable

Antonyms: cordial, friendly, sociable, social, warm

Synonym Discussion of DETACHED

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>.