Impassiveness: meaning, definitions and examples
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impassiveness
[ ɪmˈpæsɪvnəs ]
emotional state
Impassiveness refers to a state of being unable to show or feel emotions. It often implies a stoic demeanor where an individual remains calm and composed, regardless of the circumstances surrounding them.
Synonyms
calmness, detachment, serenity, stoicism
Examples of usage
- Her impassiveness during the crisis surprised everyone.
- He maintained an impassiveness that made it hard to read his thoughts.
- Despite the chaos around him, his impassiveness was striking.
Word origin
The word 'impassiveness' originated from the Latin root 'impassivus,' which means 'unmoved' or 'insensible.' The prefix 'im-' is a form of 'in-' meaning 'not,' and 'passive' comes from the Latin 'passivus,' rooted in 'pati,' meaning 'to suffer' or 'to endure.' Thus, 'impassiveness' literally conveys a state of not being affected by emotional experiences. The term began to emerge in English around the 17th century, reflecting philosophical ideas of stoicism that were gaining prominence at the time. It has since evolved to describe various contexts where individuals show a lack of emotional response, whether in personal situations or broader social dynamics.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,512, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.
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- 40511 chlorinate
- 40512 impassiveness
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- 40514 microwaving
- 40515 boomeranged
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