inimitable

adjective

in·​im·​i·​ta·​ble (ˌ)i-ˈni-mə-tə-bəl How to pronounce inimitable (audio)
: not capable of being imitated : matchless
her own inimitable style
inimitableness noun
inimitably adverb

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How Should You Use inimitable?

Something that is inimitable is, literally, not able to be imitated. In actual usage the word describes things so uniquely extraordinary as to not be copied or equaled, which is why you often hear it used to praise outstanding talents or performances (or uniquely talented and incomparable individuals). (The less common antonym imitable describes things that are common or ordinary and could easily be replicated.) Inimitable comes, via Middle English, from the Latin adjective inimitabilis. Be careful not to confuse it with inimical or inimicable, two adjectives meaning “hostile” or “harmful”; those words come from a different Latin root.

Examples of inimitable in a Sentence

an inimitable performer of violin solos
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
No other act in music boasted nine inimitable personalities, with disparate styles and sharp lyricism, who all called a single New York borough, Staten Island, home. Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 17 July 2025 What follows is a rich, nostalgic look at one of our most cherished national pastimes and a remarkable story about fathers and sons, love and family and the inimitable joy of finding your way home. Ashlee Conour, Chicago Tribune, 16 July 2025 Hot on the heels of the reveal, Milioti got on the phone with The Hollywood Reporter to discuss her first Emmy nomination, why she’s been on so many planes as of late and how playing the inimitable force that is Sofia Falcone has influenced what’s next. Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2025 But Trump, in his inimitable way, has reminded so many countries where power really lies. Hal Brands, Twin Cities, 13 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for inimitable

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin inimitabilis, from in- + imitabilis imitable

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inimitable was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Inimitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inimitable. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

inimitable

adjective
in·​im·​i·​ta·​ble (ˈ)in-ˈim-ət-ə-bəl How to pronounce inimitable (audio)
: not capable of being imitated : matchless
her own inimitable style

More from Merriam-Webster on inimitable

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