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

• 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

But without Jayson Tatum healthy, the odds [against them] winning a championship are insurmountable. —Peter A. Berry, Rolling Stone, 29 June 2025

In truth, this decision is a small spark of good news that would shine much more brightly if manatees weren’t facing threats that seem almost insurmountable over the long run. —Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2025

However, neither of those two issues — Spurs’ location or Levy’s luck with the interest rate cycle — are permanent or insurmountable. —Matt Slater, New York Times, 22 June 2025

The constant feeling of uncertainty and overwhelm is almost insurmountable. —Lisa Christen, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025

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