English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adj

apathetic

a-puh-THEH-tihk

Apathetic (adj) means showing little or no interest, enthusiasm, or concern. Example: “Voter turnout was low because so many people felt apathetic about the candidates.”

adj
1
Showing little or no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
"Voter turnout was low because so many people felt apathetic about the candidates."
"He seemed apathetic about losing his job."

How to use apathetic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishNot caring, showing no real interest or emotion either way.

Common mistake

Don't confuse with "empathetic" (showing understanding of others' feelings) — they look similar but mean nearly opposite things in tone.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
apathetic about apathetic toward grow apathetic

Word forms

more apathetic comparative, apathetics plural, most apathetic superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “apathetic” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Voter turnout was low because so many people felt _____ about the candidates.

Etymology

From "apathy" + the adjective ending "-etic."

Related words

Rhymes for apathetic

See all rhymes for apathetic →

Frequently asked questions

What does “apathetic” mean?

The word “apathetic” means showing little or no interest, enthusiasm, or concern. In plain terms, not caring, showing no real interest or emotion either way.

How do you pronounce “apathetic”?

“Apathetic” is pronounced a-puh-THEH-tihk (/ˌæpəˈθɛtɪk/ in IPA).

How do you use “apathetic” in a sentence?

Here is “apathetic” used in a sentence: “Voter turnout was low because so many people felt apathetic about the candidates.”

What is another word for “apathetic”?

Words with a similar meaning to “apathetic” include adiaphroistic, apathistical, blasé, blithe, deaf and cool.

What is the opposite of “apathetic”?

The opposite of “apathetic” — its antonyms — are furious, effusive, emotional, enthusiastic and excited.

What part of speech is “apathetic”?

“Apathetic” is an adjective.

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial