Unmoved Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unmoved

[ʌnˈmuːvd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

emotionless

Not feeling or showing any emotion; calm and composed.

Synonyms

apathetic, impassive, stoic, unemotional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unmoved

Best used when describing someone who remains unaffected or indifferent to emotions, appeals, or influences.

  • She remained unmoved by his heartfelt apology
  • Despite the touching story, he was unmoved
stoic

Describes someone who can endure pain or hardship without showing their emotions or complaining, often admired for this quality.

  • Despite the freezing cold, he stood stoic at the bus stop
  • She maintained a stoic demeanor throughout the trial
impassive

Used when referring to someone who shows no visible emotions or reactions, often implying a deliberate restraint.

  • The judge listened to the arguments with an impassive expression
  • He remained impassive even after hearing the shocking news
unemotional

Refers to an absence of strong emotions or emotional reactions, especially when expected or typical.

  • His unemotional response to the surprise party was unexpected
  • She tried to stay unemotional during the tough conversation
apathetic

This word describes someone showing a lack of interest or concern, especially when they should be interested or concerned.

  • His apathetic attitude toward the team's loss frustrated the coach
  • She was apathetic about politics and rarely voted

Examples of usage

  • She remained unmoved by his passionate speech.
  • Despite the tragic news, his expression remained unmoved.
Context #2 | Adjective

unchanged

Not changed or affected by something; remaining the same.

Synonyms

steady, unaffected, unchanged, unwavering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unmoved

Best used when describing a person who is not emotionally affected by a situation or event, often in a way that shows a lack of feeling or sympathy. This can have a negative connotation.

  • Despite the heartfelt pleas, she remained unmoved.
  • He listened to the tragic news with an unmoved expression.
unchanged

Used to state that something has remained the same over time. Generally neutral in tone.

  • The recipe has remained unchanged for generations.
  • His stance on the issue is unchanged.
steady

Appropriate when talking about someone or something stable, reliable, or consistent over time. Often used in positive contexts.

  • Her steady hand ensured the success of the surgery.
  • The team's performance has been steady throughout the season.
unaffected

Suitable for describing someone or something not influenced or changed by an external factor. This word typically carries a neutral to positive tone.

  • The building remained unaffected by the earthquake.
  • She seemed unaffected by the criticism.
unwavering

Ideal for expressing firm and resolute support, belief, or determination. It has a positive connotation, indicating strength and consistency.

  • She has been unwavering in her support for the cause.
  • His unwavering dedication earned him great respect.

Examples of usage

  • The rock stood unmoved by the strong winds.
  • His opinion on the matter remained unmoved despite the new evidence.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Individuals described as unmoved may exhibit emotional stability, which can be a sign of strong coping mechanisms.
  • Research shows that being unmoved can be a protective factor against anxiety, as it allows for a more analytical response to stressors.
  • In psychotherapy, learning to become unmoved by certain stimuli can be a technique to foster emotional regulation.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's works, characters deemed unmoved often serve as moral compasses, showing stoicism in tumultuous settings.
  • The concept of being unmoved is frequently highlighted in poetry, where it might symbolize strength in love or enduring tribulations.
  • Famous literary figures, such as Ebenezer Scrooge from 'A Christmas Carol', initially exhibit an unmoved demeanor before personal transformation occurs.

Pop Culture

  • In films, characters who remain unmoved often create dramatic tension, as they defy climax and narrative expectations.
  • Iconic figures in history, like Joan of Arc, showcased an unmoved spirit, standing firm against societal pressures and challenges.
  • Lyrics in popular music sometimes narrate stories of love or heartache where one party remains unmoved, adding depth to the narrative.

Origin of 'unmoved'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'unmoved' comes from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', combined with 'moved', which is derived from the Latin 'movere', meaning 'to move'.
  • The use of 'unmoved' dates back to the 15th century, one of the earliest examples appearing in English literature during that time.
  • In modern usage, 'unmoved' often conveys emotional resilience or steadfastness in the face of challenges.

The word 'unmoved' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'moved'. In Middle English, 'moved' referred to being emotionally affected or stirred. Over time, 'unmoved' came to represent the idea of being unaffected or unchanged by external factors. The word has been used in English literature and language to describe both emotional and physical states of being.


See also: immovability, immovable, movability, movable, move, moved, movement, mover, moves, movie, moving, movingly, remove, unmovable, unmovably.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,989, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.