Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Impregnable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🏰
Add to dictionary

impregnable

[ɪmˈprɛɡnəbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

castle defense

Unable to be captured or entered by force; secure against attack.

Synonyms

invincible, unassailable, unconquerable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
impregnable

Used to describe a structure that cannot be broken into or a position that is very strong and secure.

  • The fortress was considered impregnable because of its high walls and strong defenses
invincible

Describes someone or something that seems impossible to defeat or overcome in a fight or competition.

  • She felt invincible after winning all her matches in the tournament
unassailable

Used when referring to something that cannot be attacked, questioned, or defeated either physically or logically.

  • His argument was so well-crafted that it was unassailable
unconquerable

Describes a spirit, will, or territory that cannot be conquered or subdued, often used in more poetic or literary contexts.

  • Her unconquerable spirit inspired everyone who met her

Examples of usage

  • The impregnable fortress stood strong against the enemy's siege.
  • Despite numerous attempts, the impregnable walls of the castle could not be breached.
Context #2 | Adjective

argument

Unable to be overcome or refuted; strong and convincing.

Synonyms

unassailable, unbeatable, unshakeable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
impregnable

Best used when describing a fortress or defense that cannot be entered or overcome.

  • The castle walls were impregnable, making it impossible for enemies to penetrate
  • The security system is impregnable to hackers
unassailable

Appropriate for describing something that cannot be attacked, questioned, or defeated, often used in both physical and abstract contexts.

  • Her argument was unassailable, leaving no room for debate
  • The team's lead was unassailable, ensuring their victory
unshakeable

Used to describe something stable and secure, not easily moved or influenced, often applied to beliefs, convictions, or trust.

  • Her unshakeable faith gave her strength during hard times
  • They had an unshakeable trust in each other
unbeatable

Typically used to describe an entity, like a team or record, that is so superior it cannot be defeated.

  • The team's unbeaten streak made them seem unbeatable
  • The store offers unbeatable prices on electronics

Examples of usage

  • Her impregnable logic left no room for doubt.
  • His impregnable defense of the theory silenced all opposition.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Military History

  • Fortresses built during the Middle Ages were designed to be impregnable, using thick walls and strategic locations.
  • The famous Maginot Line was considered impregnable, intended to protect France from invasion during World War II, but it was bypassed.
  • Many ancient cities, like Troy, were thought to be impregnable due to their protective walls and surrounding natural defenses.

Architecture

  • Modern architecture employs advanced materials, making buildings increasingly impregnable to natural disasters and attacks.
  • Impregnable designs often include bulletproof glass, reinforced steel, and advanced security systems.
  • Historic castles are an example of impregnable structures, with moats and drawbridges adding to their defenses.

Literature

  • In literature, impregnable settings often create an atmosphere of mystery and challenge, as heroes must find a way to breach them.
  • The concept can be used metaphorically, representing emotional barriers that characters cannot overcome.

Pop Culture

  • In action films, the antagonist might have an impregnable hideout that the protagonist must infiltrate, creating tension.
  • Video games often feature impregnable fortresses where players must devise clever strategies to succeed.

Origin of 'impregnable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'impregnabilis,' meaning 'not able to be taken by siege.'
  • It is composed of the prefix 'im-' (not) and 'pregnare' (to seize or take).
  • It was first used in English in the early 1600s, primarily in military contexts.

The word 'impregnable' originated from the Latin word 'impregnabilis', which is derived from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'pregnabilis' meaning 'able to be taken by storm'. The term was first used in the 15th century to describe fortifications that were impossible to capture. Over time, it evolved to also refer to arguments or positions that were unassailable or unconquerable.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,438, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.