Incorrigible

/ɪnˈkɔːrɪdʒəbl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Not able to be corrected, reformed, or improved.

Despite numerous attempts to rehabilitate him, the incorrigible criminal continued to break the law.

Excessively resistant to correction or punishment.

Her incorrigible behavior in class often disrupted the lessons.

Incurable; hopeless.

He had an incorrigible optimism that never wavered, even in the face of adversity.

Unmanageable or uncontrollable.

The puppy was incorrigible, chewing up everything in sight despite punishment.

Derived from Latin 'incorrigibilis', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'corrigere' meaning 'to correct'.

incorrigible behavior

Behavior that is persistent and resistant to change.

an incorrigible liar

A person who lies habitually and cannot be trusted.

the incorrigible past

Referring to a past that cannot be changed or corrected.

corrigible

Able to be corrected or reformed.

incorrigibility

The quality of being incorrigible.

Stubborn or impossible to change.

He’s so incorrigible, you can’t make him follow any rules!

Used humorously to describe someone who will never change.

I’m incorrigible when it comes to my diet — pizza is life.