indifference

noun

in·​dif·​fer·​ence in-ˈdi-f(ə-)rən(t)s 

-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

Synonyms

• apathy
• casualness
• complacence
• disinterestedness
• disregard
• incuriosity
• incuriousness
• insouciance
• nonchalance
• torpor
• unconcern

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

The sequence culminates with Elphaba’s hand slap, a sharp, defiant gesture against the crowd’s indifference. —Bill Desowitz, IndieWire, 14 Feb. 2025

In 2023, Haenel announced her retirement from cinema, citing the complacency and indifference of the French industry to the #MeToo movement as the reason. —Scott Roxborough, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Feb. 2025

The government’s apparent indifference to the hostages deepened Israelis’ frustration. —Amos Harel, Foreign Affairs, 29 Jan. 2025

While Trump talks a big game about standing up for the middle class, his actions betray a profound indifference to their struggles. —Laura Rodriguez, Orlando Sentinel, 23 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for indifference

• difference

Kids Definition

indifference

noun

in·​dif·​fer·​ence in-ˈdif-ərn(t)s 

-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 

: the quality, state, or fact of being indifferent

a schizophrenic reaction accompanied by apathy and indifference