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Callous

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Showing or having an insensitive and cruel disregard for others.
2. Hardened or unfeeling, especially emotionally.
3. Physically, having a thickened or hardened area of skin due to repeated friction or pressure.

History and Origin

The word “callous” originates from the Latin term callosus, meaning “hardened or thick-skinned.” It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, initially describing physical hardness or toughness, and later evolved to describe emotional insensitivity.

Detailed Explanation

“Callous” refers to a lack of sympathy or concern for others. It often describes individuals who are emotionally indifferent or harsh in their behavior. In a physical sense, it can also refer to skin that has become thickened due to continuous exposure to pressure or friction, such as a calloused hand. The word highlights a figurative or literal hardness, either in character or physical texture.

Example Sentences

1. His callous attitude toward the homeless shocked everyone.
2. The manager’s callous remarks hurt the employees deeply.
3. Years of manual labor had left his palms rough and callous.
4. Her callous behavior during the crisis was difficult to overlook.
5. The doctor’s callous disregard for the patient’s concerns was unprofessional.
6. The soldier had become callous to the horrors of war.
7. She made a callous decision without considering its impact on her family.
8. The criminal’s callous nature made him notorious in the region.
9. Repeated rejections had made him emotionally callous over time.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Insensitive – Lacking emotional sensitivity or concern.
2. Unfeeling – Emotionally detached or indifferent to others’ pain.
3. Cold-hearted – Without compassion or empathy.
4. Hardened – Toughened emotionally, often by difficult experiences.
5. Apathetic – Lacking interest, enthusiasm, or concern.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Indifference – Lack of interest or concern.
2. Harshness – Severity or cruelty in attitude or behavior.
3. Cruelty – Willful causing of pain or suffering to others.
4. Detachment – Emotional disconnection or aloofness.
5. Ruthlessness – A lack of compassion, often in pursuit of a goal.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Heartless – Completely lacking in kindness or compassion.
2. Emotionless – Showing no feelings or emotions.
3. Rough – Lacking sensitivity or delicacy.
4. Toughened – Strengthened or hardened emotionally or physically.
5. Cold – Lacking warmth in emotion or behavior.

Antonyms

1. Compassionate
2. Sensitive
3. Empathetic
4. Caring
5. Kind-hearted