Understanding the Term 'Perfunctory'

The term 'perfunctory' is often used to describe actions that are carried out with minimal effort or reflection. In various contexts such as daily routines or professional duties, performing tasks in a perfunctory manner can indicate a lack of enthusiasm or care. This term can have significant implications for interpersonal communication, particularly when one party feels undervalued or overlooked due to another's inattentiveness.

Consider the following sentences: 'Despite the urgency, the doctor went through the motions of examining the patient in a perfunctory way.' 'Perfunctory meetings often leave participants feeling disengaged.' How is the word 'perfunctory' best defined in these contexts?