inimitable

adjective

in·​im·​i·​ta·​ble (ˌ)i-ˈni-mə-tə-bəl 

: not capable of being imitated : matchless

her own inimitable style

inimitableness noun

inimitably

(ˌ)i-ˈni-mə-tə-blē 

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.

Synonyms of inimitable

• only
• extraordinary
• excellent
• incomparable
• exceptional
• unparalleled
• matchless
• unique
• unrivaled
• beautiful

Examples of inimitable in a Sentence

an inimitable performer of violin solos

Recent Examples on the Web

Shinichi Atobe’s arresting house and techno beams with inimitable candor, built from bright, phlegmatic loops that run on an eccentric internal logic. —Maxie Younger, Pitchfork, 27 Mar. 2026

Hosted by the inimitable Kat Wilderness Dion, the event will include favorite music and reenactments of favorite moments from your favorite hockey-not-hockey soap opera. —Ben Crandell, Sun Sentinel, 25 Mar. 2026

Production values are top of the line across the board including Sher’s stunning camera work, the dazzling period production design of Karen Murphy, and costume design from the inimitable Sandy Powell. —Pete Hammond, Deadline, 4 Mar. 2026

Its layered design exudes an inimitable, effortlessly luxurious cool, where classic and contemporary intertwine. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin inimitābilis, from in- in- entry 1 + imitābilis imitable

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inimitable

• illimitable

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Kids Definition

inimitable

adjective

in·​im·​i·​ta·​ble (ˈ)in-ˈim-ət-ə-bəl 

: not capable of being imitated : matchless

her own inimitable style