Definition

The quality of showing little enthusiasm or effort in something.

Example

Her halfheartedness in the project was evident, as she didn't put in much effort.

Conversation

Did you notice the halfheartedness in his presentation today?

Yeah, it seemed like he didn't really care about the topic.

I wonder why he even bothered showing up then.

Maybe he just had other things on his mind.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Halfheartedness → It is formed from "half" (from Old English "healf", meaning part of something) and "hearted" (from "heart", which comes from Old English "heorte", meaning the organ associated with emotion and spirit) combined with the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word describes the state of having only a part of one's heart or spirit engaged in something, indicating a lack of full commitment or enthusiasm.

Memory Tip

Think of 'half' meaning part and 'hearted' relating to the spirit or emotion — this helps you remember that halfheartedness means a lack of full commitment or enthusiasm.

Visually Confused Words