Definition

The condition of not showing any emotions or feelings; being calm and unresponsive.

Example

Her impassiveness during the crisis surprised everyone around her.

Conversation

Have you noticed her impassiveness during the meeting?

Yeah, it was like she wasn't even listening to anyone.

I wonder if she's always that calm or just pretending.

Maybe it's a strategy to keep her thoughts to herself.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Impassiveness is formed from "im-" (meaning not) and "passive" (from Latin "passivus", meaning capable of feeling or suffering) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state of being). The word describes the state of being not capable of feeling or suffering, indicating emotional or physical indifference.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('im-') feeling or suffering ('passive') — that's what impassiveness means.

Visually Confused Words