a. [ L. insensibilis: cf. F. insensible. See In- not, and Sensible. ] [ 1913 Webster ] 1. Destitute of the power of feeling or perceiving; wanting bodily sensibility; unconscious. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ] Accept an obligation without being a slave to the giver, or insensible to his kindness. Sir H. Wotton. [ 1913 Webster ] Lost in their loves, insensible of shame. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. Incapable of being perceived by the senses; imperceptible. Hence: Progressing by imperceptible degrees; slow; gradual; as, insensible motion. [ 1913 Webster ] Two small and almost insensible pricks were found upon Cleopatra's arm. Sir T. Browne. [ 1913 Webster ] They fall away, And languish with insensible decay. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. Not sensible or reasonable; meaningless. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ] If it make the indictment be insensible or uncertain, it shall be quashed. Sir M. Hale. 5. Incapable of feeling a specific sensation or emotion; as, insensible to pity. [ PJC ] Syn. -- Imperceptible; imperceivable; dull; stupid; torpid; numb; unfeeling; apathetic; stoical; impassive; indifferent; unsusceptible; hard; callous. [ 1913 Webster ] |