inviable

adjective

in·​vi·​a·​ble (ˌ)in-ˈvī-ə-bəl How to pronounce inviable (audio)
: incapable of surviving especially because of a deleterious genetic constitution

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web It is largely believed peppers developed capsaicin as a defense mechanism to prevent animals — likely rodents, whose grinding teeth render seeds inviable — from eating them. Amy Drew Thompson, Orlando Sentinel, 18 Nov. 2022 However, while both early embryos and late fetuses can become inviable due to genetic errors, early and late abortions are regulated very differently. Kathryn Kavanagh, The Conversation, 1 Sep. 2022

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'inviable.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inviable was in 1918

Dictionary Entries Near inviable

Cite this Entry

“Inviable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inviable. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.

Medical Definition

inviable

adjective
in·​vi·​a·​ble (ˈ)in-ˈvī-ə-bəl How to pronounce inviable (audio)
: incapable of surviving especially because of a deleterious genetic constitution
inviability noun
plural inviabilities
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