ineligible
UK: ɪnˈelɪdʒəbl | US: ɪnˈelɪdʒəbl
adj. not qualified or permitted to be chosen or to participate
adj. legally disqualified from holding office or voting
The word "ineligible" combines the Latin prefix "in-" (meaning "not") with the root "elig" (from Latin "eligere," meaning "to choose"), and the suffix "-ible" (indicating capability). Originally, "eligere" referred to selecting or picking out, and over time, "eligible" came to mean "qualified to be chosen." Adding "in-" negates this, forming "ineligible" to describe someone or something that cannot be selected or does not meet the necessary criteria.
Due to his criminal record, he was deemed ineligible for the job.
Students with incomplete applications are ineligible for scholarships.
The athlete was ruled ineligible after failing the drug test.
Non-citizens are ineligible to vote in national elections.
The damaged product was ineligible for a refund under store policy.