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Indelible: meaning, definitions and examples

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indelible

 

[ɪnˈdɛlɪb(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

memory

Not able to be forgotten or removed; permanent.

Synonyms

inescapable, lasting, permanent, unforgettable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indelible

Use this word when describing something that cannot be removed or forgotten, often applied to memories or marks.

  • She has indelible memories of her childhood
  • The graffiti left an indelible mark on the building
permanent

Best for referring to something that is intended to last forever or for a very long time, commonly used in legal terms, changes, or states.

  • She has a permanent job now
  • The scar is permanent
unforgettable

Ideal for describing something so memorable and impressive that it cannot be forgotten, often used for experiences or moments.

  • That was an unforgettable concert
  • Meeting the celebrity was an unforgettable experience
lasting

Appropriate for describing something that endures over a long time, often used for positive or negative impacts, relationships, or impressions.

  • Their friendship has left a lasting impression on me
  • The medicine has a lasting effect
inescapable

This word is suitable for situations where something cannot be avoided or escaped, often used to describe unavoidable consequences or truths.

  • The truth is inescapable
  • He felt an inescapable sense of duty

Examples of usage

  • The indelible memory of her first kiss.
  • The indelible impact of the tragedy on the community.
  • The indelible mark left by his presence.
Context #2 | Adjective

mark

Making marks that cannot be removed.

Synonyms

irremovable, lasting, permanent, unerasable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indelible

Used to describe a mark, impression, or memory that cannot be removed or forgotten, often emphasizing emotional or psychological impact.

  • The moment she heard the news made an indelible impression on her mind
permanent

Used when referring to something intended to last indefinitely without change, often highlighting a long-term or unchangeable condition.

  • The tattoo she got is a permanent reminder of her adventurous youth
lasting

Describes something that endures or persists over a long period of time. This word is often used for abstract concepts, like emotions or effects, without implying permanence.

  • Their friendship had a lasting impact on his life
irremovable

Refers to something that cannot be moved or removed, often used in a physical or literal sense.

  • The stain on the carpet was irremovable despite all cleaning attempts
unerasable

Describes something that cannot be erased or removed, usually in a literal sense but can also be used metaphorically.

  • The unerasable marker left stains all over the whiteboard

Examples of usage

  • The indelible ink on the document.
  • The indelible stain on the carpet.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'indelebilis', which means 'not able to be blotted out.'
  • In Latin, 'in-' means 'not,' and 'delere' means 'to destroy or erase.'
  • The English usage of 'indelible' began in the early 17th century, primarily relating to ink that couldn't be washed away.

Psychology

  • Memories deemed 'indelible' are often tied to strong emotional experiences, making them hard to forget.
  • Psychologists study how certain vivid memories imprint on our minds, illustrating how significant events can create indelible marks in our memory.
  • Traumatic experiences can leave indelible effects on mental health, affecting a person's behavior and emotional responses.

Literature

  • In literature, characters' indelible traits often define their journeys and shape how readers perceive them throughout stories.
  • The idea of something being indelible is often used in narratives to convey themes of unforgettable love or loss.
  • Famous works often highlight indelible moments—scenes or quotes that resonate deeply with readers long after they’ve finished reading.

Technology

  • In technology, indelible often refers to data that cannot be deleted, emphasizing the permanence of certain digital footprints.
  • Certain types of inks used in printers are labeled as indelible because they resist fading and washing away.
  • Indelible marks in a technology context can signify the importance of user data privacy and the need to manage digital legacies.

Art

  • Artists strive to create indelible impressions through their work, aiming for pieces that resonate across time.
  • Tattoo art has an indelible quality, marking the skin in a way that signifies personal stories or commitments.
  • The indelible nature of certain colors in art can symbolize permanence and the enduring impact of creative expression.

Translations

Translations of the word "indelible" in other languages:

🇵🇹 indelével

🇮🇳 अमिट

🇩🇪 unauslöschlich

🇮🇩 tak terhapuskan

🇺🇦 нестертий

🇵🇱 niezatarte

🇯🇵 消えない (kienai)

🇫🇷 indélébile

🇪🇸 indeleble

🇹🇷 silinmez

🇰🇷 지울 수 없는 (jiul su eomneun)

🇸🇦 لا يمحى (la yamḥā)

🇨🇿 nevymazatelný

🇸🇰 nezmazateľný

🇨🇳 不可磨灭的 (bù kě má miè de)

🇸🇮 neizbrisen

🇮🇸 óafmáanlegur

🇰🇿 өшпес

🇬🇪 უდავებელი (udavebeli)

🇦🇿 silməz

🇲🇽 indeleble

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,544, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.