Meaning & Definition of word "Incorrigible"

Incorrigible

/ɪnˈkɔːrɪdʒəbl/

adjective:

  • 1. Not able to be corrected, reformed, or improved.
    • Example: Despite numerous attempts to rehabilitate him, the incorrigible criminal continued to break the law.
  • 2. Excessively resistant to correction or punishment.
    • Example: Her incorrigible behavior in class often disrupted the lessons.
  • 3. Incurable; hopeless.
    • Example: He had an incorrigible optimism that never wavered, even in the face of adversity.
  • 4. Unmanageable or uncontrollable.
    • Example: 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 of incorrigible

Meaning: Stubborn or impossible to change.

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

Meaning: Used humorously to describe someone who will never change.

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