perfunctory Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough
    passing; cursory; casual.
    • a casual (or cursory) inspection failed to reveal the house's structural flaws
    • a passing glance
    • perfunctory courtesy
  2. adjective satellite as a formality only
    pro forma.
    • a one-candidate pro forma election

WordNet

Per*func"to*ry adjective
Etymology
L. perfunctorius, fr. perfunctus dispatched, p.p. of perfungi to discharge, dispatch; per (see Per) + fungi to perform. See Function.
Definitions
  1. Done merely to get rid of a duty; performed mechanically and as a thing of rote; done in a careless and superficial manner; characterized by indifference; as, perfunctory admonitions. Macaulay.
  2. Hence: Mechanical; indifferent; listless; careless. "Perfunctory in his devotions." Sharp.

Webster 1913