Borrowed in the late 16th century, the word is specifically from the Late Latin perfunctorius, meaning "done in a careless or superficial manner." Perfunctorius ultimately comes from two Latin sources, …

PERFUNCTORY definition: 1. done quickly, without taking care or interest: 2. done quickly, without taking care or…. Learn more.

Definition of perfunctory adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

A perfunctory action is done quickly and carelessly, and shows a lack of interest in what you are doing. She gave the list only a perfunctory glance. ...a perfunctory handshake. Our interest was purely …

1. Done routinely and with little interest or care: The operator answered the phone with a perfunctory greeting. 2. Acting with indifference; showing little interest or care.

Jan 20, 2026 · perfunctory (comparative more perfunctory, superlative most perfunctory) Done only or merely to conform to a minimal standard or to fulfill a protocol or presumptive duty.

Apr 6, 2026 · Perfunctory is a word that encapsulates the quiet erosion of sincerity in routine actions. Whether used in journalism, literature, or everyday conversation, it provides a refined way to critique …

Perfunctory means done as part of a routine or duty. If you give someone a gift and they look at it like it's roadkill and say nothing but a perfunctory "thank you," you might not be giving them another one …

There are three meanings listed in OED's entry for the adjective perfunctory, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

without interest or enthusiasm: a perfunctory speaker. per•func•to•ri•ly, adv.: He introduced us perfunctorily and rushed off to the other guests. See -funct-. hasty and superficial: perfunctory …