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Immutable: meaning, definitions and examples

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immutable

 

[ɪˈmjuːtəbl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

data structure

Unable to be changed or altered.

Synonyms

fixed, unalterable, unchangeable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
immutable

Used to describe something that cannot be changed or altered, often in a formal or technical context, such as software development, or scientific laws.

  • The rules are immutable and must be followed.
  • In Python, strings are immutable objects.
unchangeable

Commonly used to describe something that cannot be changed, often used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • The past is unchangeable no matter how much we wish otherwise.
  • The laws of physics are unchangeable.
fixed

Appropriate when referring to something that is firmly set, established, or unchanging, often used in everyday contexts like schedules or positions.

  • We have a fixed schedule that we must adhere to.
  • The prices are fixed and non-negotiable.
unalterable

Best used in more formal or legal contexts to indicate that something cannot be changed or modified by any means.

  • The contract terms are unalterable and must be respected by all parties.
  • The decision of the committee is unalterable.

Examples of usage

  • Once the object is created, its state is immutable.
  • The immutable nature of the data structure ensures thread safety.
  • The use of immutable objects simplifies the debugging process.
Context #2 | Adjective

law

Not subject to change or modification.

Synonyms

invariable, unchangeable, unchanging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
immutable

Use when referring to something that cannot be changed over time or under any circumstances, often used in a formal or technical context.

  • Mathematical laws are immutable.
  • In software development, an immutable object is one whose state cannot be modified after it is created.
unchangeable

Used when emphasizing that something cannot be altered or modified, but in a general sense rather than a formal or scientific context.

  • Some things in life are unchangeable and must be accepted.
  • His decision on the matter was unchangeable.
invariable

Best for describing something that does not vary or change in different situations, often related to measurements, routines, or natural laws.

  • Her morning routine is invariable; she follows the same steps every day.
  • The speed of light in a vacuum is an invariable constant.
unchanging

Ideal for describing something that remains the same over time, often in an informal or everyday context.

  • The old tree in the backyard stood unchanging through the seasons.
  • His love for his hometown is unchanging.

Examples of usage

  • The terms of the contract were deemed immutable by the court.
  • The immutable rights of the individual are protected by the constitution.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'immutabilis', which means 'not capable of change', combining 'in-' (not) and 'mutabilis' (changeable).
  • It was first used in English in the early 15th century, reflecting a long-standing concept of permanence.

Science

  • In computer science, 'immutable' refers to objects that, once created, cannot be altered, leading to benefits in memory efficiency and safety.
  • Immutable data structures can simplify the programming process and enhance performance in various applications.

Philosophy

  • The idea of immutability is often discussed in metaphysical contexts regarding the nature of existence and reality.
  • Some philosophical doctrines argue that certain truths are immutable, forming a foundation for ethics and morality.

Pop Culture

  • In popular films and literature, characters often face situations with immutable laws or truths, creating conflict and tension in the story.
  • The concept appears in various genres, including fantasy and science fiction, where characters may encounter unchangeable fates or destinies.

Psychology

  • Research in psychology observes that individuals often hold immutable beliefs, which can significantly affect their worldview and decision-making.
  • Cognitive biases can lead people to perceive certain traits as immutable, impacting relationships and personal growth.

Translations

Translations of the word "immutable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imutável

🇮🇳 अपरिवर्तनीय

🇩🇪 unveränderlich

🇮🇩 tidak berubah

🇺🇦 незмінний

🇵🇱 niezmienny

🇯🇵 不変

🇫🇷 immuable

🇪🇸 inmutable

🇹🇷 değişmez

🇰🇷 변경할 수 없는

🇸🇦 غير قابل للتغيير

🇨🇿 neměnný

🇸🇰 nemenný

🇨🇳 不可变

🇸🇮 nespremenljiv

🇮🇸 óbreytanlegt

🇰🇿 өзгермейтін

🇬🇪 უცვლელი

🇦🇿 dəyişməz

🇲🇽 inmutable

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,014, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.