Perfunctory – Word of the Day
Meaning:
- Lacking in interest or effort
- Superficial or routine
Origin:
Perfunctory is a word whose origins can be found entirely in Latin. The word first appeared in English in the late 16th century, and comes from the Late Latin word perfunctorius, meaning “done in a careless or superficial manner,”. Another possible origin is the Latin word perfungi, meaning “to accomplish” or “to get through with.” That word is formed by combining the prefix per-, meaning “through,” with the verb fungi, meaning “to perform.”
Usage:
- He hugged his wife, although only perfunctorily.
- The receptionist flashed a perfunctory smile at the new guests who just walked in.
- James did such a perfunctory job raking the leaves, I might have to do it myself.
- The three-time golden boot winner refuses to do even the most perfunctory of interviews.
- My professor acknowledged me with the most perfunctory nod.
- The doctor only conducted a perfunctory exam on his patient, before discharging him.
- My accountant only looked at my books perfunctorily. I need to fire him and find a new one.
- My mind wasn’t present in class that day, I was simply writing down what my lecturer said, that too only perfunctorily.
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