Indelible Meaning and Definition
Indelible
Pronunciation
/ɪnˈdɛlɪbəl/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A term describing something that is impossible to erase, remove, or alter; a mark, stain, or impression that remains permanent.
Examples
1. “Her memories of the traumatic event were indelible.”
2. “The indelible stain on the carpet required professional cleaning.”
Synonyms
1. Permanent
2. Lasting
3. Enduring
Antonyms
1. Ephemeral
2. Fleeting
Etymology
The word ‘indelible’ originates from the Latin terms ‘in-‘ (not) and ‘delebilis’ (removable), which is derived from ‘deleare’ (to scrape away or remove).
Additional Information
Indelible marks or stains can be physically or emotionally scarring, leaving a lasting impact on an individual or an object. In literature and art, indelible marks are often used as metaphors for the lasting power of memories or experiences. In a more abstract sense, indelibility can refer to the permanence of knowledge, ideas, or cultural traditions. The concept of indelibility has been explored in various fields, including psychology, philosophy, and art history.
The term has been used in various contexts, including science, where indelible changes to DNA can be significant. In the realm of human experience, indelible moments are often linked to significant life events, such as birth, death, or major life milestones.
From a practical standpoint, the term is often used in industries that deal with products or materials that are prone to permanent damage or discoloration, such as textiles, paint, or plastics.
In the realm of language, the term has been used in poetry and literature to convey the lasting impact of words or ideas on the human psyche.
Usage Notes
The word ‘indelible’ is often used to describe physical marks or stains that cannot be removed, but it can also be used metaphorically to describe lasting impressions or memories.
When using the term, consider the context in which it is being applied. In scientific or technical contexts, the term may be used to describe permanent changes to materials or substances.
In more abstract contexts, the term can be used to describe the lasting impact of ideas, experiences, or cultural traditions.
Cultural References
The term ‘indelible’ has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, art, and music.
In literature, the term has been used by authors such as James Joyce and Virginia Woolf to describe the lasting impact of memories and experiences.
In art, the term has been used to describe the permanence of certain artistic styles or movements, such as the indelible mark of Impressionism on modern art.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “A mark of indelible shame”
2. “An indelible stain on one’s reputation”
Collocations
1. “Indelible memories” or “indelible experiences”
2. “An indelible mark or stain”
3. “An indelible impact on one’s life”
Frequency of Use
The term ‘indelible’ is not as commonly used as other adjectives, but it is still a recognized and valid term in the English language.
In modern language, the term is more likely to be used in contexts where the concept of permanence or lasting impact is relevant.
Common Misspellings
1. Indelible
2. Unerasable
3. Permanent