Dictionary

impassive

adjective im·pas·sive \(ˌ)im-ˈpa-siv\

: not showing emotion

Full Definition of IMPASSIVE

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 \ˌim-ˌpa-ˈsi-və-tē\ noun
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First Known Use of IMPASSIVE

1605

Synonym Discussion of IMPASSIVE

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 a habitual absence of interest, responsiveness, or curiosity <stolid workers wedded to routine>.
IMPASSIVENESS Defined for Kids

impassive

adjective im·pas·sive \im-ˈpa-siv\

Definition of IMPASSIVE for Kids

:  not feeling or showing emotion <an impassive face>
im·pas·sive·ly adverb

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