Ungovernably: meaning, definitions and examples

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ungovernably

 

[ ʌnˈɡʌv(ə)rnəbli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

uncontrollable behavior

Ungovernably refers to behaving in a manner that is impossible to control or restrain. It suggests a state of being where actions or emotions are driven by strong impulses that cannot be managed.

Synonyms

chaotically, uncontrollably, wildly

Examples of usage

  • He reacted ungovernably to the provocation.
  • The crowd acted ungovernably during the protest.
  • She felt ungovernably angry after the insult.

Word origin

The term 'ungovernably' is derived from the root word 'govern', which comes from the Latin 'gubernare', meaning to steer or direct. This Latin term has its origins in the Greek word 'kybernan', which also means to steer or guide. The addition of the prefix 'un-' signifies negation, implying the inability or impossibility of being governed or controlled. The suffix '-ably' denotes an adverbial form, indicating the manner in which something occurs. Over time, 'ungovernably' has evolved to describe situations or behaviors that resist regulation or oversight, commonly used in both legal and social contexts.