untouchable
UK: ʌnˈtʌtʃəbl | US: ʌnˈtʌtʃəbl
adj. unable to be touched or affected; beyond reach or influence
adj. (social context) belonging to a caste or group considered impure or socially ostracized
n. a person who is untouchable, especially in a social or legal context
The word "untouchable" combines the negative prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the root "touch" (from Old French "touchier," meaning "to make contact") and the suffix "-able" (Latin "-abilis," indicating capability). Originally literal ("incapable of being touched"), it later acquired social and metaphorical meanings, particularly in contexts like caste systems or invulnerability.
The artifact was kept behind glass, making it untouchable to visitors.
In some societies, untouchables faced severe discrimination.
His reputation as a critic made him seem untouchable by scandals.
The law was designed to ensure no one is untouchable, not even the wealthy.
The mountain peak remained untouchable due to harsh weather conditions.