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.
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 For example, a superstar playing card from the ultra-rare Topps Dice Game (fashioned after Strat-O-Matic, and released in 1963, though it’s officially labeled 1961 by trading card grader PSA) is virtually unattainable. Michael Salfino, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026 People who would never be caught dead swilling neon fizz from a camouflage can were suddenly consuming a drink that was materially the same, but was being sold by exploiting a different set of unattainable aspirations, using a different vocabulary. Ellen Cushing, The Atlantic, 25 Feb. 2026 Beyond this collection, Palmer also has a broader commitment to making wellness feel accessible, rather than aspirational or unattainable. Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 19 Feb. 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 12 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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