indispensability
UK: ˌɪn.dɪ.spen.səˈbɪl.ə.ti | US: ˌɪn.dɪ.spen.səˈbɪl.ə.t̬i
n. the quality or state of being absolutely necessary or essential
n. something that cannot be done without
indispensability = in<not> + dispens<dispense> + ability<noun suffix>
- in (prefix): Negation, from Latin "in-" meaning "not."
- dispens (root): From Latin "dispensare," meaning "to weigh out" or "manage," later evolving to "dispense" (to exempt or distribute).
- ability (suffix): From Latin "-abilitas," forming nouns indicating capacity or suitability.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin "indispensabilis," combining "in-" (not) + "dispensabilis" (capable of being dispensed with). Originally tied to religious exemptions ("dispensations"), it shifted to mean "essential" by the 17th century. The suffix "-ity" solidifies its abstract noun form, emphasizing irreplaceability.
Clean water is of utmost indispensability for human survival.
The team recognized her indispensability after she left.
Technology has reached a level of indispensability in modern education.
His role in the project’s success proved his indispensability.
The report highlights the indispensability of biodiversity to ecosystems.