intangibility

UK: ɪnˌtændʒəˈbɪləti | US: ɪnˌtændʒəˈbɪləti

Definition

  1. n. the quality of being unable to be touched or grasped physically; abstractness

  2. n. the state of being difficult to define or measure

Structure
in <not>tang <touch>ibility <noun suffix indicating quality>
Etymology

The word "intangibility" derives from Latin roots:

  • The prefix "in-" (meaning "not") negates the core concept.
  • The root "tang" comes from Latin "tangere" (to touch), also seen in words like "tangible" and "contact."
  • The suffix "-ibility" (from Latin "-ibilitas") transforms the adjective "intangible" into a noun denoting a state or quality.
    The term evolved to describe abstract concepts (e.g., emotions, ideas) that lack physical form, reflecting a shift from literal touch to metaphorical graspability.
Examples

  1. The artist aimed to capture the intangibility of human emotions in her abstract painting.

  2. Philosophers often debate the intangibility of concepts like justice and freedom.

  3. Digital assets highlight the intangibility of modern wealth.

  4. The report emphasized the intangibility of brand value in financial assessments.

  5. His speech addressed the intangibility of happiness as a measurable goal.