impenetrable
UK: ɪmˈpenɪtrəbl | US: ɪmˈpenɪtrəbl
adj. impossible to pass through or enter
adj. impossible to understand or decipher
adj. resistant to influence or change
impenetrable = im<not> + penetr<to pierce> + able<capable of>
- im<not>: A prefix derived from Latin in- (negative), meaning "not."
- penetr<to pierce>: From Latin penetrare (to enter, pierce), related to penitus (within).
- able<capable of>: A suffix from Latin -abilis, indicating capacity or possibility.
Etymology Origin:
The word "impenetrable" combines Latin roots to convey literal and figurative resistance. Penetrare (to pierce) evolved into English "penetrate," while the negative prefix im- flips the meaning to "incapable of being pierced." Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe ideas, secrets, or barriers that defy comprehension or access.
The fortress was surrounded by impenetrable walls.
Her expression remained impenetrable, revealing no emotion.
The jungle’s thick foliage created an impenetrable barrier.
His argument was so convoluted it seemed impenetrable.
Advanced encryption makes the data virtually impenetrable.