unbearable

adjective

un·​bear·​able ˌən-ˈber-ə-bəl How to pronounce unbearable (audio)
: not bearable : unendurable
unbearable pain
unbearably adverb

Examples of unbearable in a Sentence

We were in an almost unbearable state of excitement. this heat is unbearable—when are we going to get air-conditioning?
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.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior royals in 2020, citing unbearable intrusions from the British press and a lack of support from the palace. Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 7 Nov. 2025 Her optic nerve was damaged, and the pain was unbearable. Rick Mauch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Oct. 2025 Residents are also concerned that the influx of residential units would make already bad traffic in the area unbearable, and many audience members groaned loudly when Trantalis and Fajardo confirmed the units will be rentals, not condos. Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 29 Oct. 2025 Simon van Teutem clapped, too, but for him, the irony was unbearable. Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 26 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unbearable

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Unbearable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unbearable. Accessed 14 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

unbearable

adjective
un·​bear·​able ˌən-ˈbar-ə-bəl How to pronounce unbearable (audio)
ˈən-
-ˈber-
: greater than can be borne
unbearable pain
unbearably adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on unbearable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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