unstoppable

UK: ʌnˈstɒpəbl̩ | US: ʌnˈstɑːpəbl̩

Definition

  1. adj. impossible to stop or prevent

  2. adj. persistently determined or relentless

Structure
un <not>stop <halt>able <capable of>
Etymology

The word "unstoppable" combines three morphemes:

  1. "un-" (Old English "un-"), a prefix meaning "not," negates the root.
  2. "stop" (Middle English "stoppen," from Old English "stoppian"), meaning to halt or block.
  3. "-able" (Latin "-abilis," via Old French "-able"), a suffix indicating capability.
    The term emerged in the 16th century, originally describing physical obstacles but later expanding to metaphorical resilience. The logic is straightforward: "not + halt + capable of" → "incapable of being halted."
Examples

  1. The team's momentum was unstoppable after their third goal.

  2. Her enthusiasm for the project made her seem unstoppable.

  3. Technological progress is often described as unstoppable.

  4. The floodwaters became unstoppable, overwhelming the barriers.

  5. With his relentless focus, he was unstoppable in achieving his goals.