inimitable

adjective

in·​im·​i·​ta·​ble (ˌ)i-ˈni-mə-tə-bəl How to pronounce inimitable (audio)
: not capable of being imitated : matchless
her own inimitable style
inimitableness noun
inimitably adverb

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How Should You Use inimitable?

Something that is inimitable is, literally, not able to be imitated. In actual usage the word describes things so uniquely extraordinary as to not be copied or equaled, which is why you often hear it used to praise outstanding talents or performances. (The antonym imitable describes things that are common or ordinary and could easily be replicated or surpassed.) Inimitable derives via Middle English from Latin inimitabilis. Be careful not to confuse it with inimical or inimicable, two adjectives meaning "hostile" or "harmful"; those words derive from the same Latin root that gave English enemyinimīcus.

Examples of inimitable in a Sentence

an inimitable performer of violin solos
Recent Examples on the Web So many wonderful and talented people have been involved in the making of ‘Vera’ across all the series, but none of us would be here without two incredible women: firstly, the absolutely extraordinary talent of the inimitable Brenda Blethyn. Ellise Shafer, Variety, 22 Apr. 2024 In and amongst other top-notch sporting talents: the inimitable Serena Williams, who took time out to share some wit and wisdom with Vogue in her hotel room, starting with her number-one piece of advice for the next generation of sportswomen. Hayley Maitland, Vogue, 14 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for inimitable 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inimitable.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin inimitabilis, from in- + imitabilis imitable

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inimitable was in the 15th century

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Dictionary Entries Near inimitable

Cite this Entry

“Inimitable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inimitable. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

inimitable

adjective
in·​im·​i·​ta·​ble (ˈ)in-ˈim-ət-ə-bəl How to pronounce inimitable (audio)
: not capable of being imitated : matchless
her own inimitable style

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