uncontrollable

adjective

un·​con·​trol·​la·​ble ˌən-kən-ˈtrō-lə-bəl 

1

: incapable of being controlled : ungovernable

a rush of uncontrollable emotions

2

archaic : free from control by a superior power : absolute

uncontrollability

ˌən-kən-ˌtrō-lə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

uncontrollably

ˌən-kən-ˈtrō-lə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms of uncontrollable

• stubborn
• unmanageable
• ungovernable
• incontrollable
• intractable
• unruly
• willful
• rebellious
• wayward
• recalcitrant
• refractory
• difficult
• out of hand
• headstrong
• naughty

Examples of uncontrollable in a Sentence

the uncontrollable child kept throwing tantrums in public and creating scenes

Recent Examples on the Web

News coverage amplifies the fear because the story feels vivid and uncontrollable. —John Samuels, Forbes.com, 14 May 2026

Tremors, uncontrollable shaking At very high doses, glycoalkaloids can become fatal. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 10 May 2026

The plane became uncontrollable after take-off and crashed short of the runway on its return to the airport, according to the complaints. —Joe Marusak may 1, Charlotte Observer, 1 May 2026

It's characterized by persistent, intrusive and uncontrollable thoughts about food. —Alora Bopray, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for uncontrollable

• controllable
• inconsolable

Kids Definition

uncontrollable

adjective

un·​con·​trol·​la·​ble ˌən-kən-ˈtrō-lə-bəl 

: incapable of being controlled : ungovernable

uncontrollably

-blē 

adverb