Unsinkable: meaning, definitions and examples

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unsinkable

 

[ʌnˈsɪŋkəbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

description of a ship or object

Not capable of sinking; designed to remain afloat even if damaged.

Examples of usage

  • The Titanic was believed to be unsinkable, but tragically it sank on its maiden voyage.
  • The unsinkable lifeboat provided a sense of security for the passengers.
Context #2 | Adjective

description of a person's spirit or attitude

Resilient, strong-willed, not easily discouraged or defeated.

Synonyms

indefatigable, resilient, undaunted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unsinkable

This is best used when describing something or someone that cannot be defeated or fail, often in the sense of enduring through tough circumstances. It is often used metaphorically.

  • Despite all the challenges, her spirit remained unsinkable.
  • The company's unsinkable attitude helped them overcome the economic crisis.
resilient

Used to describe someone or something that can recover quickly from difficulties or setbacks. This word highlights the ability to bounce back.

  • Children are often more resilient than adults imagine.
  • The resilient nature of the ecosystem allowed it to recover rapidly after the fire.
indefatigable

This word is used to describe someone who is tireless and keeps working hard, no matter how difficult or long the task might be. It is often used in contexts where persistence and hard work are highlighted.

  • The scientist's indefatigable efforts led to a groundbreaking discovery.
  • He was known for his indefatigable commitment to helping the community.
undaunted

Appropriate for describing someone who is not intimidated or discouraged by difficulty, danger, or disappointment. This adjective is often used to emphasize bravery and determination.

  • Undaunted by the storm, the hikers continued their journey.
  • She faced the criticism undaunted and persisted with her plans.

Examples of usage

  • Despite facing many challenges, she remained unsinkable in her determination to succeed.
  • His unsinkable optimism inspired those around him to keep going.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'sink', which originates from the Old English 'sincan', meaning 'to fall' or 'to drop'.
  • The term gained popularity in the early 20th century, especially related to ships designed to be safer.

History

  • The RMS Titanic was famously touted as 'unsinkable' before its tragic sinking in 1912.
  • This notion of unsinkability has influenced ship design, leading to increased safety regulations in maritime history.

Science

  • An object's buoyancy depends on its density; materials can be engineered to improve their ability to float.
  • Certain configurations, like hollow structures, can make it easier for items to remain on the surface of water.

Pop Culture

  • The idea of unsinkability has appeared in films and books, often representing hope or resilience.
  • The phrase is commonly used metaphorically to suggest something that cannot fail, like a business or person's reputation.

Literature

  • In literature, the term often symbolizes unwavering strength or perseverance in the face of adversity.
  • Classic sea adventures sometimes include 'unsinkable' vessels as a plot device, emphasizing heroism and invincibility.

Translations

Translations of the word "unsinkable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inafundável

🇮🇳 अडूब

🇩🇪 unsinkbar

🇮🇩 tidak dapat tenggelam

🇺🇦 незатоплюваний

🇵🇱 niezatapialny

🇯🇵 不沈

🇫🇷 insubmersible

🇪🇸 insumergible

🇹🇷 batmaz

🇰🇷 침몰하지 않는

🇸🇦 غير قابل للغرق

🇨🇿 nepotopitelný

🇸🇰 nepotopiteľný

🇨🇳 不沉

🇸🇮 nepotopljiv

🇮🇸 ósökkvanlegur

🇰🇿 сұңғыма

🇬🇪 ჩაუძირავი

🇦🇿 batmaz

🇲🇽 insumergible

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,257, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.