unattainable

adjective

un·​at·​tain·​able ˌən-ə-ˈtā-nə-bəl How to pronounce unattainable (audio)
Synonyms of unattainablenext
: not able to be accomplished or achieved : not attainable
unattainable goals
an unattainable ideal
unattainability noun
unattainably adverb

Examples of unattainable in a Sentence

an eagle's nest in an unattainable location unfortunately, world peace is probably an unattainable ideal
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Herd immunity is about more than just eliminating transmission by reaching an often unattainable threshold of population-level protection. Virginia E. Pitzer, Hartford Courant, 17 Mar. 2026 In the case of a sacrosanct, seemingly unattainable number like Kobe’s 81, chasing a stat doesn’t feel so different from chasing a ring. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 14 Mar. 2026 But that goal will be difficult—verging on unattainable—and would likely require a lengthy military commitment. Jonathan Lemire, The Atlantic, 12 Mar. 2026 While the world continues to push unattainable beauty standards into every aspect of our lives, women of all ages are quietly protesting the status quo by starting a revolution that embraces aging and natural beauty rather than rejecting them. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unattainable

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unattainable was in 1662

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Cite this Entry

“Unattainable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unattainable. Accessed 20 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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