ineffaceable
UK: ˌɪnɪˈfeɪsəbl | US: ˌɪnɪˈfeɪsəbl
adj. impossible to erase or remove from memory or existence
adj. leaving a permanent impression or mark
ineffaceable = in<not> + efface<erase> + able<capable of>
- in-: Prefix meaning "not" (from Latin in-).
- efface: Root meaning "to erase or wipe out" (from Old French esfacier, combining es- "out" + face "face").
- -able: Suffix meaning "capable of" (from Latin -abilis).
Etymology Origin:
The word "ineffaceable" combines Latin and French influences. The prefix in- negates the root efface, which originally meant "to remove from the surface" (literally "to take the face off"). Over time, efface evolved metaphorically to mean "erase from memory." Adding -able creates an adjective meaning "incapable of being erased," emphasizing permanence. The word reflects a logical progression from physical removal (efface) to abstract indelibility (ineffaceable).
The trauma left an ineffaceable mark on her psyche.
His contributions to science are ineffaceable.
The artist’s work created an ineffaceable impression on the critics.
Childhood memories can sometimes be ineffaceable.
The treaty’s impact on history is ineffaceable.