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unattainable

adjective

un·​at·​tain·​able ˌən-ə-ˈtā-nə-bəl How to pronounce unattainable (audio)
Synonyms of unattainablenext
: not able to be accomplished or achieved : not attainable
unattainable goals
an unattainable ideal
unattainability noun
unattainably adverb

Examples of unattainable in a Sentence

an eagle's nest in an unattainable location unfortunately, world peace is probably an unattainable ideal
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.
This repetitive, cyclic failure to grasp the gulf between the two warring sides – hammered out in two separate negotiating tracks – is ultimately why progress always seems so close, yet also so unattainable. Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 28 Nov. 2025 If Rice were bulkier in his day with his skill set, his records might be even more unattainable. James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025 But athletic departments are willing to spend it in exchange for a shot at national recognition that is increasingly unattainable in the revenue-sharing world of football and men’s basketball. Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Nov. 2025 When cosmetic patients chase an unattainable ideal of beauty due to a mental health condition like body dysmorphic disorder or severe depression, Sarwer says Botox and other procedures don't improve their symptoms. NPR, 17 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unattainable

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unattainable was in 1662

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Cite this Entry

“Unattainable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unattainable. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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