inexpressive, a.
(ɪnɛkˈsprɛsɪv)
[in-3. Cf. F. inexpressif (15th c. in Godef.).]
1. = inexpressible. arch. (In modern writers prob. in imitation of Shakes. A.Y.L. iii. ii. 10, or Milton Lycidas 176, where unexpressive is the word.)
| 1652 Benlowes Theoph. v. xxxix. 72 On the Vision inexpressive rayes did wait. 1744 Akenside Pleas. Imag. i. 124 Then the inexpressive strain Diffuses its inchantment. 1794 Mathias Purs. Lit. (1798) 298 To mortal ken he dares unveil The inexpressive form in semblance frail. 1856 Mrs. Browning Aur. Leigh vii. 730 Those soft-winged eyes..'Twixt trembling lids of inexpressive joy. 1866 J. H. Newman Gerontius (1874) 14, I feel in me An inexpressive lightness and a sense Of freedom. |
2. Not expressive; not expressing a meaning, feeling, character, etc.; wanting in expression.
| 1744 Akenside Pleas. Imag. iii. 285 To behold, in lifeless things, The inexpressive semblance of himself, Of thought and passion. 1761 Lloyd Prol. Hecuba (R.), O! glorious times, when actors thus could strike, Expressive, inexpressive, all alike! 1791 Robertson India App. 280 Finished in a stile considerably superior to the hard inexpressive manner of the Egyptians. 1834 Medwin Angler in Wales I. 239 His features are inexpressive of intellect. 1846 Mrs. Gore Eng. Char. (1852) 152 That blank and inexpressive vacuity, which an able diplomatist is careful to assume as a vizard. c 1860 Faber Old Labourer x, His inexpressive eye. |