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.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

corrigible
Able to be corrected or reformed.
incorrigibility
The quality of being incorrigible.

Slang Meanings

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.