the inability to react sympathetically to a crisis, disaster, etc, because of overexposure to previous crises, disasters, etc
compassion fatigue in American English
noun
a lack of sympathy for suffering, as a result of continuous exposure to those in need of aid
Word origin
[1980–85, Amer.]This word is first recorded in the period 1980–85. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: NIMBY, designer drug, golden parachute, off-price, postfeminist
Examples of 'compassion fatigue' in a sentence
compassion fatigue
After compassion fatigue, choice fatigue and information fatigue, we now face gloom fatigue.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
Transmitting images of human suffering repetitiously can result in compassion fatigue.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
We have reached a point of compassion fatigue when it comes to the rainforest.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
In any case, the phrase 'compassion fatigue' is familiar enough in modern society.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
We need to stop blaming one professional group (often nurses) for compassion fatigue.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
People often talk about 'compassion fatigue': the dulling impact of repeated appeals for assistance upon those to whom the appeal is made.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
We were reaching a sort of compassion fatigue, along with frustration and disgust that nothing was being done.
Times, Sunday Times (2018)
But compassion fatigue remains a rich man's disease that the poor, the weak, the sick and the war-ravaged cannot afford.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
Having been sympathetic about the plight of those closest, at work or at home, for most of the month, you're now experiencing compassion fatigue.