# callous

/ˈkæɫəs/ (US) · /kˈæləs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/callous
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

showing no care or sympathy for the feelings or suffering of other people. You use this to describe someone who is cold and unkind.

For teachers: exhibiting a cruel disregard for others; insensitive and unsympathetic. Often used to describe individuals in positions of power or specific harmful actions.

## Examples

- The manager made a callous remark about the staff.
- The company's callous decision to fire the workers right before the holidays sparked a massive public protest.
- His callous indifference to the plight of the refugees was widely condemned by international human rights organizations as a violation of basic moral standards.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an adjective to describe people, attitudes, or actions. It can be used both before a noun or after a linking verb.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.