Irrepressible: meaning, definitions and examples

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irrepressible

 

[ˌɪrɪˈprɛsɪbəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

unstoppable force

Unable to be controlled or restrained. Overflowing with enthusiasm or energy.

Synonyms

uncontrollable, unrestrained, unstoppable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
irrepressible

Describe someone or something that is full of energy, enthusiasm, or emotion that cannot be suppressed.

  • Her laughter was irrepressible during the comedy show
  • His irrepressible spirit kept the team motivated even in tough times
unstoppable

Used to describe someone or something that cannot be stopped or is extremely determined and resilient.

  • The athlete's performance was unstoppable in the final match
  • She had an unstoppable drive to succeed
uncontrollable

Used for situations or emotions that are difficult or impossible to manage or keep within limits.

  • The crowd became uncontrollable when the celebrity arrived
  • His rage was uncontrollable after hearing the bad news
unrestrained

Refer to something that is not limited by any boundaries or constraints, often implying excess or freedom.

  • The party was full of unrestrained joy
  • Unrestrained growth can sometimes lead to unforeseen problems

Examples of usage

  • He had an irrepressible urge to explore the world.
  • Her irrepressible laughter filled the room.
  • The irrepressible enthusiasm of the students was contagious.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'irrepressibilis,' where 'in-' means 'not' and 'reprimere' means 'to restrain.'
  • It first appeared in English in the early 19th century, gaining popularity in literature and conversation.
  • The prefix 'ir-' is commonly used in English words to indicate negation, a feature found in many adjectives and adverbs.

Literature

  • In literary contexts, the term often describes characters who are spirited and unable to be subdued, showcasing their strong personalities.
  • Famous characters in literature, such as Huckleberry Finn, embody an irrepressible spirit, reflecting themes of freedom and rebellion.
  • Poets frequently use the term to express intense feelings or emotions that cannot be contained.

Psychology

  • In psychology, irrepressible behavior can be linked to personality traits such as extroversion, where individuals exhibit uncontainable enthusiasm.
  • Studies have shown that maintaining an irrepressible attitude can significantly impact one's resilience and coping mechanisms.
  • People who display irrepressible traits often experience stronger social connections due to their infectious energy.

Pop Culture

  • Irrepressible characters often appear in films and TV shows, such as the exuberant personality of the Joker in Batman, showcasing chaos that cannot be contained.
  • The term has been used in song lyrics, often describing a vibrant, unstoppable spirit, resonating with themes of freedom and joy.
  • Comic book superheroes often display irrepressible traits, highlighting their inability to be restrained in their actions and motivations.

Translations

Translations of the word "irrepressible" in other languages:

🇵🇹 irrefreável

🇮🇳 अथक

🇩🇪 unbezähmbar

🇮🇩 tak terhentikan

🇺🇦 невгамовний

🇵🇱 niepowstrzymany

🇯🇵 抑えられない

🇫🇷 irrépressible

🇪🇸 irrefrenable

🇹🇷 durdurulamaz

🇰🇷 억누를 수 없는

🇸🇦 لا يقهر

🇨🇿 nezkrotný

🇸🇰 neutíšiteľný

🇨🇳 不可抑制的

🇸🇮 neukrotljiv

🇮🇸 óviðráðanlegur

🇰🇿 тәжірибесіз

🇬🇪 დაუმორჩილებელი

🇦🇿 dayandırılmaz

🇲🇽 irrefrenable

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,876, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.