callousness

[ kal-uhs-nis ]

noun

1. the quality of being insensitive, indifferent, or unsympathetic; hardness of heart:

   Cutting off the unemployed from their benefits is a sad blend of callousness—a complete lack of empathy for the unfortunate—and unsound economics.

2. a hardened or thickened condition of the skin or other tissue:

   Razors and shaving cause a callousness of the skin, which will encourage heavier hair growth and irritation.

Other Words From

• un·cal·lous·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of callousness¹

callous ( def ) + -ness ( def )

Example Sentences

“Depravity does not adequately describe the callousness involved to kill a human being and then drive around in the victim’s own car with his body inside in order to carry out the rest of his plan,” O.C.

From Los Angeles Times

Her frank admission reminds Billy that Agatha is not a nice person, even if her callousness is entertaining.

From Salon

“The callousness of this crime shocks the conscience, and we will do everything to get justice for Julie and her loved ones.”

From Los Angeles Times

Readers will understandably recoil at the musician’s callousness, especially given Mintz’s sublimation of himself in the service of Lennon and Ono.

From Salon

Petty bureaucratic rules are enforced with a cruel callousness.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• alienation
• apathy
• carelessness
• disdain
• disinterest
• disregard
• inattention
• inertia
• insensitivity
• lack
• negligence
• nonchalance