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."
"The construction flaw is incorrigible; any attempt to amend it would cause a complete collapse."
How to use incorrigible
Learner’s notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- incorrigibles
Fill the gap
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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").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
corrigible
correctable
Related words
Rhymes for incorrigible
See all rhymes for incorrigible →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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