insurmountable

adjective

in·​sur·​mount·​able ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇n-tə-bəl How to pronounce insurmountable (audio)
Synonyms of insurmountablenext
: incapable of being surmounted : insuperable
insurmountable problems
insurmountably adverb

Examples of insurmountable in a Sentence

They were faced with several insurmountable obstacles. the familiar story of the underdog who ultimately triumphs despite insurmountable odds
Recent Examples on the Web
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The 24-time grand slam champion held a nearly insurmountable record of 289-1 when leading by two sets to none in majors – according to the TNT broadcast – and Fonseca having a mountain to climb may be an understatement. Thomas Schlachter, CNN Money, 29 May 2026 In a weak American League, Detroit’s five-game deficit in the wild-card standings is not insurmountable. Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 26 May 2026 There are so many obstacles in their way that can feel insurmountable. Staff Author, Parents, 24 May 2026 Throw in Christian Walker’s two home runs against starter Colin Rea, and the Astros’ three-run lead in the third felt nearly insurmountable. Andy Martinez, Chicago Tribune, 23 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for insurmountable

Word History

First Known Use

1690, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insurmountable was in 1690

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Cite this Entry

“Insurmountable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insurmountable. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

insurmountable

adjective
in·​sur·​mount·​able ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇nt-ə-bəl How to pronounce insurmountable (audio)
: incapable of being surmounted

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