Definition

The quality of being cruel or lacking compassion and kindness.

Example

His heartlessness was evident when he ignored the suffering of others.

Conversation

Did you hear about that story where someone showed such heartlessness during the crisis?

Yeah, it's really shocking how some people can be so cold.

I know, right? It makes you wonder how they can live with themselves.

Exactly, it's hard to believe there's so much heartlessness in the world.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heartlessness → It is formed from "heart" (from Old English "heorte", meaning the organ that pumps blood and also symbolizes emotion) and "-less" (meaning without). The word "heartlessness" means the state of being without heart, or lacking compassion and empathy.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'without' ('-less') 'heart' — this helps you remember that heartlessness means lacking compassion.

Visually Confused Words