detached

adjective

de·​tached di-ˈtacht 

dē-

1

: standing by itself : separate, unconnected

especially : not sharing any wall with another building

a house with a detached garage

2

: exhibiting an aloof objectivity usually free from prejudice or self-interest

a detached observer

detachedly

di-ˈta-chəd-lē 

dē-

-ˈtacht-lē

adverb

detachedness

di-ˈta-chəd-nəs 

-ˈtacht-nəs

dē-

noun

Synonyms

• aloof
• antisocial
• asocial
• buttoned-up
• cold
• cold-eyed
• cool
• distant
• dry
• frosty
• offish
• remote
• standoff
• standoffish
• unbending
• unclubbable
• unsociable

Choose the Right Synonym for detached

indifferent, unconcerned, incurious, aloof, detached, disinterested mean not showing or feeling interest.

indifferent implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice.

indifferent to the dictates of fashion

unconcerned suggests a lack of sensitivity or regard for others' needs or troubles.

unconcerned about the homeless

incurious implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness.

incurious about the world

aloof suggests a cool reserve arising from a sense of superiority or disdain for inferiors or from shyness.

aloof from his coworkers

detached implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness.

observed family gatherings with detached amusement

disinterested implies a circumstantial freedom from concern for personal or especially financial advantage that enables one to judge or advise without bias.

judged by a panel of disinterested observers

Examples of detached in a Sentence

The house has a detached garage.

a detached observer at company parties, taking it all in and saying very little

Recent Examples on the Web

Listed for the first time this year, the 61-acre property includes a sprawling mansion, a greenhouse, and a detached garage with room for up to 20 cars. —Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 28 Oct. 2024

Take their approach to motherhood: While Cleo seems almost blinded by her devotion to her sons, Maddie is more detached from her teenage son, Seth. —Manuel Betancourt, Vulture, 26 July 2024

The impressive property also features a long, gated driveway, a home theater, and a detached guest house and recording studio, per the listing, which was held by Branden Williams and Rayni Williams of The Beverly Hills Estates. —Natalia Senanayake, People.com, 30 Oct. 2024

Structures include a main home, a detached guesthouse, and separate staff quarters—for a combined total of 16 bedrooms and 27 baths in 50,000 square feet. —Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 26 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see detach

First Known Use

circa 1706, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing detached

• detached service

Kids Definition

detached

adjective

de·​tached di-ˈtacht 

1

: not joined or connected : separate

a detached house

2

: aloof entry 2, unconcerned, impartial

a detached attitude

detachedly

-ˈtach-əd-lē 

-ˈtach-tlē

adverb

detachedness

-ˈtach-əd-nəs 

-ˈtach(t)-nəs

noun