Definition

The condition of lacking meaning or purpose; being foolish or irrational.

Example

The senselessness of the violence shocked everyone in the community.

Conversation

Did you see that news story about the violence?

Yeah, it was shocking and just filled with senselessness.

I can't understand how people can act that way.

It really makes you wonder about the world we live in.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Senselessness → It is formed from "sense" (from Latin "sensus", meaning perception or feeling) and the suffix "-less" (meaning without) and "-ness" (meaning the state of). The word "senselessness" refers to the state of being without perception or feeling.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'without' ('-less') 'perception' ('sensus') — that's why senselessness means lacking feeling or awareness.

Visually Confused Words