indifference

noun

in·​dif·​fer·​ence in-ˈdi-f(ə-)rən(t)s How to pronounce indifference (audio)
-fərn(t)s
1
: the quality, state, or fact of being indifferent
2
a
: absence of compulsion to or toward one thing or another
b
archaic : lack of difference or distinction between two or more things

Examples of indifference in a Sentence

She was amazed that some people could watch the trial with indifference. She watched them with a cool indifference.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One day after a clip of Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley ripping JJ Redick went viral, the Lakers coach issued his own rebuttal — with indifference. Dan Woike, Los Angeles Times, 4 Jan. 2025 But Assad’s fall (and Russia’s indifference to the collapse of his regime) suggests that concern for Syria or any other client state has been subjugated by Putin to his overriding focus on dealing Ukraine a decisive defeat. Alexander Baunov, Foreign Affairs, 26 Dec. 2024 Gelb’s notion of a decades-long melodic drought ending with Philip Glass and John Adams shows a basic indifference to opera history. Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 23 Dec. 2024 This includes acts of neglect, indifference and emotional disconnection, such as: Failing to show interest in a partner’s feelings or the relationship. Mark Travers, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for indifference 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of indifference was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near indifference

Cite this Entry

“Indifference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indifference. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

indifference

noun
in·​dif·​fer·​ence in-ˈdif-ərn(t)s How to pronounce indifference (audio)
-ˈdif-(ə-)rən(t)s
1
: lack of feeling for or against something
2
: lack of importance
a matter of indifference to them

Medical Definition

indifference

noun
in·​dif·​fer·​ence in-ˈdif-ərn(t)s, -ˈdif-(ə-)rən(t)s How to pronounce indifference (audio)
: the quality, state, or fact of being indifferent
a schizophrenic reaction accompanied by apathy and indifference

More from Merriam-Webster on indifference

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