unbearable

adjective

un·​bear·​able ˌən-ˈber-ə-bəl 

: not bearable : unendurable

unbearable pain

unbearably

ˌən-ˈber-ə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms

• intolerable
• unendurable
• intense
• overwhelming
• extreme
• insufferable
• insupportable
• terrible
• unacceptable
• harsh
• painful
• unsupportable

Examples of unbearable in a Sentence

We were in an almost unbearable state of excitement.

this heat is unbearable—when are we going to get air-conditioning?

Recent Examples on the Web

Regardless of your views or political leanings, for many the grief of losing a parent is relatable and unbearable. —Will Carless, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025

Spending will continue to increase and the debt burden—already unbearable—will grow heavier and more costly. —Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 9 Sep. 2025

In 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior royals, citing the unbearable intrusions of the British press and a lack of support from the palace. —Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 9 Sep. 2025

Spending will continue to increase and the debt burden — already unbearable — will grow heavier and more costly. —Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unbearable

• arable
• bearable
• parable
• terrible
• wearable
• repairable

Kids Definition

unbearable

adjective

un·​bear·​able ˌən-ˈbar-ə-bəl 

ˈən-,

-ˈber-

: greater than can be borne

unbearable pain

unbearably

-blē 

adverb