Senselessness: meaning, definitions and examples

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senselessness

 

[ ˈsɛnsləsnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

lack of meaning

Senselessness refers to the quality of being without sense, meaning, or purpose. It can describe actions, thoughts, or conditions that seem irrational or illogical. In broader discussions, it may also relate to a lack of awareness or understanding.

Synonyms

absurdity, foolishness, irrationality, meaninglessness

Examples of usage

  • The senselessness of violence often shocks communities.
  • Critics pointed to the senselessness of the decision-making processes.
  • Many questioned the senselessness behind the policies implemented.
  • The senselessness of his actions left everyone confused.

Translations

Translations of the word "senselessness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 insensatez

🇮🇳 बेतुकीपन

🇩🇪 Sinnlosigkeit

🇮🇩 ketidaksensian

🇺🇦 безглуздя

🇵🇱 bezsensowność

🇯🇵 無意味

🇫🇷 absurdité

🇪🇸 sinsentido

🇹🇷 anlamsızlık

🇰🇷 무의미

🇸🇦 عدم المعنى

🇨🇿 bezvýznamnost

🇸🇰 bezvýznamnosť

🇨🇳 无意义

🇸🇮 brezsmiselnost

🇮🇸 merkingarleysi

🇰🇿 мағынасыздық

🇬🇪 არას Sense

🇦🇿 mənasızlıq

🇲🇽 sinsentido

Etymology

The term 'senselessness' originates from the word 'senseless,' which itself comes from the Old English 'senseless,' meaning lacking in sense or meaning. The prefix 'sense' traces back to Latin 'sensus,' meaning perception or feeling, which also gave rise to the English noun 'sensation.' The idea has evolved through the centuries to refer not only to a lack of physical sensation but also to a lack of rational thinking or intelligent conduct. By adding the suffix '-ness,' it transforms the adjective into a noun, indicating a state or quality. The use of 'senselessness' has been recorded in English literature since the 19th century, often used to critique mindless violence, foolish decisions, or irrational behaviors, showcasing its relevance in discussions around ethics, philosophy, and human behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,199, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.