unthinkable

adjective

un·​think·​able ˌən-ˈthiŋ-kə-bəl How to pronounce unthinkable (audio)
Synonyms of unthinkablenext
1
: not capable of being grasped by the mind
2
: being contrary to what is reasonable, desirable, or probable : being out of the question
unthinkability noun
unthinkably adverb

Examples of unthinkable in a Sentence

to most people it seemed unthinkable that such a gentle man could be guilty of such awful crimes
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.
Despite such evidence that past population peaks are likely never to return for certain communities, the idea of a city planning for anything other than growth is almost unthinkable in public discourse. Christopher Briem, The Conversation, 12 June 2026 Spending one night in such conditions is already a horrifying thought, but spending several years is an unthinkable ordeal. Pavlo Fedykovych, CNN Money, 12 June 2026 In what may amount to the most important game in franchise history, the Knicks dug themselves a 29-point hole — then came out like John Wick in the second half to pull-off an unthinkable 107-106 comeback victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals on Wednesday. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 11 June 2026 Not that big a sacrifice for two programs in different conferences from Texas Tech, but something to keep an eye on if, say, a not-unthinkable matchup between the 'Dawgs and Red Raiders comes up in next season's College Football Playoff. ABC News, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for unthinkable

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

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Cite this Entry

“Unthinkable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unthinkable. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

unthinkable

adjective
un·​think·​able ˌən-ˈthiŋ-kə-bəl How to pronounce unthinkable (audio)
ˈən-
: not to be thought of or considered as possible
unthinkable cruelty

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