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adj

indelible

ihn-DEH-luhbl

Indelible (adj) means Impossible to remove, erase, or wash away. Example: “She used indelible ink to sign the contract.”

adj
1
Impossible to remove, erase, or wash away.
"She used indelible ink to sign the contract."
"The scandal left an indelible mark on his reputation."

How to use indelible

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomething so permanent it can't be erased — literally (ink, stains) or figuratively (memories, reputations).

Common pairings
indelible ink indelible mark indelible impression leave an indelible memory

Word forms

more indelible comparative, most indelible superlative

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She used _____ ink to sign the contract.

Etymology

From Latin indelebilis, "that cannot be destroyed," from in- ("not") + delere ("to destroy, erase").

Origin: Latin

Antonyms

Related words

Rhymes for indelible

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Frequently asked questions

What does “indelible” mean?

The word “indelible” means impossible to remove, erase, or wash away. In plain terms, something so permanent it can't be erased — literally (ink, stains) or figuratively (memories, reputations).

How do you pronounce “indelible”?

“Indelible” is pronounced ihn-DEH-luhbl (/ɪnˈdɛləbl/ in IPA).

How do you use “indelible” in a sentence?

Here is “indelible” used in a sentence: “She used indelible ink to sign the contract.”

What is the opposite of “indelible”?

The opposite of “indelible” — its antonyms — is delible.

What part of speech is “indelible”?

“Indelible” is an adjective.

Where does the word “indelible” come from?

The word “indelible” comes from Latin. From Latin indelebilis, "that cannot be destroyed," from in- ("not") + delere ("to destroy, erase").

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial