Callous

usgb/ˈkæləs/
adjective

Showing or having an insensitive and cruel disregard for others.

Her callous comments about the deceased were especially hurtful
Visual representation of "callous" - Showing or having an insensitive and cruel disregard for others

Often appears as...

  • callous disregard
  • callous indifference

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "callous"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Emotion

Callous is used to express a strong negative feeling towards someone's behavior.

Illustration for Negative Emotion
His callous remark about the poverty-stricken areas shocked everyone.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Insensitive Attitude

Use 'callous' to describe a person who does not care about others' feelings.

Illustration for Insensitive Attitude
She was callous to the suffering of her employees during the layoffs.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Impact

The word often implies that the callous person causes emotional pain.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
The manager's callous decision left the team feeling undervalued and hurt.
Word comparison image

Compare with

cruelharshheartlessindifferentinsensitivepitilessremorselesssympatheticunfeeling
Look up Compare with
Visual representation of the word "Callous"

Never forget "Callous"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top