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adj

incorrigible

ihn-KO-rihd-zhuhbl

Incorrigible (adj) means So set in bad habits or behaviour that it seems impossible to correct or reform. Example: “He was an incorrigible flirt, even at his own wedding.”

adj
1
So set in bad habits or behaviour that it seems impossible to correct or reform.
"He was an incorrigible flirt, even at his own wedding."
"The teacher called the boy incorrigible after his fifth detention that week."

How to use incorrigible

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishImpossible to reform or improve — stuck permanently in a bad habit or trait.

When to use it

Often used lightly or affectionately about harmless quirks, not just serious criminal behaviour.

Common pairings
incorrigible optimist incorrigible flirt utterly incorrigible

Word forms

incorrigibles plural

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He was an _____ flirt, even at his own wedding.

Etymology

From Middle French incorrigible, from Latin incorrigibilis, from in- ("not") plus corrigere ("to correct").

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for incorrigible

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Frequently asked questions

What does “incorrigible” mean?

The word “incorrigible” means so set in bad habits or behaviour that it seems impossible to correct or reform. In plain terms, impossible to reform or improve — stuck permanently in a bad habit or trait.

How do you pronounce “incorrigible”?

“Incorrigible” is pronounced ihn-KO-rihd-zhuhbl (/ɪnˈkɔɹɪd͡ʒəb(ə)l/ in IPA).

How do you use “incorrigible” in a sentence?

Here is “incorrigible” used in a sentence: “He was an incorrigible flirt, even at his own wedding.”

What is another word for “incorrigible”?

Words with a similar meaning to “incorrigible” include axiomatic, unfalsifiable and incurable.

What is the opposite of “incorrigible”?

The opposite of “incorrigible” — its antonyms — are corrigible and correctable.

What part of speech is “incorrigible”?

“Incorrigible” is an adjective.

Where does the word “incorrigible” come from?

The word “incorrigible” comes from Latin. From Middle French incorrigible, from Latin incorrigibilis, from in- ("not") plus corrigere ("to correct").

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