Unspeakable

/ʌnˈspiːkəbl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Too awful or extreme to be expressed or described in words.
The horror of the crime was unspeakable, leaving the community in shock.
Indescribable; beyond the limits of what can be articulated.
The beauty of the sunset was so unspeakable that it took her breath away.
Something that is considered taboo or unacceptable to talk about.
He experienced an unspeakable guilt after his actions that he could not share with anyone.

Etymology

From the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'speakable' meaning 'able to be spoken'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

the unspeakable truth
A reality that is hard to accept or discuss.
unspeakable acts
Actions that are morally or ethically beyond description.
unspeakable joy
A level of happiness that is so great it defies expression.

Related Words

unutterable
Too great or extreme to be expressed in words.
incommunicable
Incapable of being communicated or expressed.

Slang Meanings

Beyond words
The horror of the situation was just beyond words.
Can't even
What happened at the party was so wild that I can't even.