insurmountable

adjective

in·​sur·​mount·​able ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇n-tə-bəl 

: incapable of being surmounted : insuperable

insurmountable problems

insurmountably

ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇n-tə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms of insurmountable

• insuperable
• unconquerable
• invincible
• unstoppable
• indomitable
• unbeatable
• invulnerable
• impregnable
• bulletproof
• undefeated
• armored

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

As the mistakes piled up for Jamahl Mosley‘s squad, the deficit, which grew to 33 points in the first half, became insurmountable for the Magic in the 126-109 loss at O2 Arena in front of a global audience on Amazon Prime Video. —Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 Jan. 2026

District leaders pointed to declining student achievement, a lack of resources for the school's special education program, and insurmountable financial issues with the school. —Adam Thompson, CBS News, 15 Jan. 2026

The challenges today seem insurmountable for those who have suffered long years of poverty, hurt, neglect and disinvestment. —Willie Wilson, Chicago Tribune, 15 Jan. 2026

Thoughts about sad events stopped causing days-long spirals, and tasks that once felt insurmountable were no longer a second thought. —Cnn.com Wire Service, Mercury News, 15 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1690, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for insurmountable

• accountable
• demountable
• uncountable
• countable
• unaccountable

Kids Definition

insurmountable

adjective

in·​sur·​mount·​able ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇nt-ə-bəl 

: incapable of being surmounted