Remorseless: meaning, definitions and examples

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remorseless

 

[ rɪˈmɔːrs.ləs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

lack of pity

Remorseless describes a person or action that is without remorse or guilt. It often refers to someone who shows no signs of compassion or regret for their actions, even if they lead to harm or suffering. This term can be applied to both individuals and situations.

Synonyms

callous, heartless, unfeeling, unrepentant.

Examples of usage

  • The remorseless killer showed no emotions during the trial.
  • Her remorseless demeanor made it clear she felt no guilt.
  • The remorseless storm caused widespread destruction.
  • He was remorseless in his pursuit of power.

Etymology

The word 'remorseless' is derived from the combination of 'remorse,' which comes from the Latin 'remordere,' meaning 'to bite back' or 'to regret,' and the suffix '-less,' indicating the absence of something. The term has evolved to embody a sense of complete lack of guilt or compassion. It has been used in various literary contexts, often to describe characters who are depicted as villainous or cruel, contributing to the rich tapestry of language that conveys moral judgment. Over the years, its usage has expanded into various forms of media, including film and literature, where remorseless characters are often central to the narrative, highlighting themes of morality and ethics.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,334, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.