How Do You Spell INSENSIBLE?

Pronunciation: [ɪnsˈɛnsəbə͡l] (IPA)

Insensible is spelled with the letter "s" instead of "c" because of its Latin roots. The prefix "in-" means "not" and the Latin word "sensus" means "sense", so the word insensible means "without feeling". The IPA transcription for "insensible" is /ɪnˈsɛnsəbəl/. The first syllable "in" is pronounced as "ɪn", the "s" in "sens" is pronounced as "s", and the "e" in "sens" is pronounced as "ɛ". The second syllable "i" is pronounced as "ɪ" and the ending "ble" is pronounced as "bəl".

INSENSIBLE Meaning and Definition

  1. Insensible is an adjective that describes someone or something as lacking physical or emotional perception or responsiveness. It refers to the condition of being insensitive or unaware of surrounding stimuli, and can be used to describe both people and objects.

    In a physical sense, insensible can refer to a person who is unconscious or numb, unable to feel pain or sensations. This could be due to a medical condition, anesthesia, or a state of shock. For example, a patient under anesthesia during surgery is temporarily insensible to pain.

    In an emotional or behavioral sense, insensible refers to a person who is unresponsive or indifferent to the feelings or needs of others. It suggests a lack of empathy or sympathy, an inability to understand or connect with others on an emotional level. For instance, an insensible individual may be oblivious to the suffering of someone in distress or disregard the consequences of their actions on others.

    Insensible can also describe an object or situation that is imperceptible or difficult to detect. It denotes an absence of a noticeable effect or change, often pertaining to subtle or gradual alterations. For instance, if a change in temperature is insensible, it means there is no perceivable change in the air or environment.

    Overall, insensible characterizes a lack of awareness, responsiveness, or sensitivity, whether physical, emotional, or relating to objects and phenomena.

  2. 1. Unconscious. 2. Not appreciable by the senses.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. That cannot be felt or perceived; incapable of feeling in mind or body; very slow or imperceptible; very gradual; not emotional; dull; stupid.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for INSENSIBLE

Etymology of INSENSIBLE

The word "insensible" originated from the Latin word "insensibilis" which is derived from the combination of "in-" (meaning "not") and "sensibilis" (meaning "able to be felt" or "perceptible"). In Latin, "sensibilis" is derived from the word "sensus" meaning "sense" or "feeling". Over time, "insensibilis" evolved into "insensible" in English, retaining the same meaning of being unaware or unable to perceive or feel something.

Similar spelling words for INSENSIBLE

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