In*sen"si*ble (?), a. [L. insensibilis: cf. F. insensible. See In- not, and Sensible.]

1.

Destitute of the power of feeling or perceiving; wanting bodily sensibility.

Milton.

2.

Not susceptible of emotion or passion; void of feeling; apathetic; unconcerned; indifferent; as, insensible to danger, fear, love, etc.; -- often used with of or to.

Accept an obligation without being a slave to the giver, or insensible to his kindness. Sir H. Wotton.

Lost in their loves, insensible of shame. Dryden.

3.

Incapable of being perceived by the senses; imperceptible. Hence: Progressing by imperceptible degrees; slow; gradual; as, insensible motion.

Two small and almost insensible pricks were found upon Cleopatra's arm. Sir T. Browne.

They fall away, And languish with insensible decay. Dryden.

4.

Not sensible or reasonable; meaningless.

[Obs.]

If it make the indictment be insensible or uncertain, it shall be quashed. Sir M. Hale.

Syn. -- Imperceptible; imperceivable; dull; stupid; torpid; numb; unfeeling; apathetic; stoical; impassive; indifferent; unsusceptible; hard; callous.

 

© Webster 1913.