Indelible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indelible

[ษชnหˆdษ›lษชb(ษ™)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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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 momentsโ€”scenes or quotes that resonate deeply with readers long after theyโ€™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.

Origin of 'indelible'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'indelible' originated from the Latin word 'indelibilis', which is derived from the prefix 'in-' (not) and 'delebilis' (able to be destroyed). The term has been used in English since the 16th century to describe something that cannot be forgotten or removed, leaving a lasting impression or mark.


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.