Inexplicable

/ˌɪnɪkˈsplɪkəbl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Unable to be explained or accounted for.
The sudden disappearance of the painting was inexplicable to the museum staff.
Beyond the capacity of human explanation or understanding.
Her inexplicable joy seemed to radiate through the room.
Mystifying; puzzling.
The phenomenon was inexplicable to the scientists despite their extensive research.

Etymology

From Latin 'inexplicabilis', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'explicabilis' meaning 'able to be explained'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

inexplicable behavior
Actions or conduct that cannot be understood or rationalized.
inexplicable joy
A feeling of happiness that seems to have no clear cause.
inexplicable mystery
A mystery that cannot be solved or understood.

Related Words

explain
To make an idea, situation, or problem clear.
mystery
Something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain.
riddle
A puzzling question or problem.

Slang Meanings

Baffling
That situation was totally baffling; it was inexplicable!
Beyond words
The beauty of the sunset was simply beyond words, truly inexplicable.