ineligible

adjective

in·​el·​i·​gi·​ble (ˌ)i-ˈne-lə-jə-bəl How to pronounce ineligible (audio)
Synonyms of ineligiblenext
: not eligible: such as
a
: not qualified for an office or position
b
: not permitted under football rules to catch a forward pass
an ineligible receiver
ineligible noun

Examples of ineligible in a Sentence

Previously ineligible patients may now be able to participate in the study. They are ineligible for a loan.
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.
However, after abruptly closing in 2024 and failing to reopen services, SDC lost its designation as the county's community action agency and became ineligible to use the funds, according to the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families. Gina Lee Castro, jsonline.com, 8 Jan. 2026 Their most exciting decision — awarding Best Actress to Kathleen Chalfant for the MFL-ineligible Familiar Touch — won’t have any impact on the league, unfortunately, but Ethan Hawke picked up yet another valuable Best Actor win for his performance in Blue Moon. Joe Reid, Vulture, 6 Jan. 2026 But as long as Martin lacks accreditation, the university is ineligible for federal financial aid, according to the HLC. Jordan Smith, IndyStar, 6 Jan. 2026 Also ineligible is Peter Hujar’s Day, recently nominated for the prestigious USC Scripter Award. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ineligible

Word History

Etymology

French inéligible, from in- + éligible eligible

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ineligible was in 1770

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ineligible.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ineligible. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

ineligible

adjective
in·​el·​i·​gi·​ble (ˈ)in-ˈel-ə-jə-bəl How to pronounce ineligible (audio)
: not qualified to be chosen or used
ineligible noun

More from Merriam-Webster on ineligible

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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