a. [ L. perfunctorius, fr. perfunctus dispatched, p. p. of perfungi to discharge, dispatch; per (see Per) + fungi to perform. See Function. ] 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; a perfunctory greeting. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. Hence: Mechanical; indifferent; listless; careless. “Perfunctory in his devotions.” Sharp. [ 1913 Webster ]