impassive

[ im-pas-iv ]

adjective

1. without emotion; apathetic; unmoved.

   Synonyms: unperturbed, undisturbed, emotionless, indifferent, stoical, phlegmatic

2. calm; serene.

   Synonyms: composed, unruffled, placid, tranquil

3. unconscious; insensible.
4. not subject to suffering.

   Synonyms: unflinching, unaffected

impassive

/ ˌɪmpæˈsɪvɪtɪ; ɪmˈpæsɪv /

adjective

1. not revealing or affected by emotion; reserved
2. calm; serene; imperturbable
3. rare.
   unconscious or insensible

Derived Forms

• imˈpassiveness, noun
• imˈpassively, adverb

Other Words From

• im·passive·ly adverb
• im·passive·ness im·pas·siv·i·ty [im-pa-, siv, -i-tee], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of impassive¹

First recorded in 1660–70; im- ² + passive

Example Sentences

The normally impassive Carsley finally let his emotions out after the final whistle, joining the celebrations with his players, beaming as he wrapped an equally elated Jones in a bearhug.

From BBC

One of the most striking things about the video was how impassive you looked after breaking a world record.

From Los Angeles Times

Through it all stood the impassive Ancelotti, the masterly facilitator of great players, working it out with the help of those in his charge, including a lengthy touchline conversation with Carvajal close to half-time.

From BBC

So there’s a theory percolating online that if you adopt the qualities of a stone, becoming impassive and bland, then you will repel the argumentative, antagonistic people in your life who are itching for conflict.

From New York Times

Packer remained impassive in the dock at the High Court in Glasgow as the verdicts were delivered by the jury.

From BBC

Related Words

• emotionless
• matter-of-fact
• placid
• reticent
• serene
• stoic
• stolid
• taciturn
• unemotional
• unflappable
• unruffled