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

The sticking points ahead of a US-Iran deal less resemble insurmountable hurdles, and more smaller details of pride and positioning. —Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 15 Apr. 2026

Michigan, obviously, is the toughest foe that Hurley has faced on this stage, and may have insurmountable size, but don’t discount how difficult UConn is to game plan for on a single day’s rest. —The Athletic College Basketball Staff, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2026

At least some California Republicans, though, don’t see the endorsement as an insurmountable obstacle for Bianco. —Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Oc Register, 6 Apr. 2026

At the same time, the physicists don’t see any insurmountable obstacles. —Quanta Magazine, 3 Apr. 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