immutability

[ ih-myoo-tuh-bil-i-tee ]

noun

1. the state or condition of being unchangeable:

   These findings contradict previous myths about the genetic immutability of intelligence at birth.

   The ancient Christian doctrine of God's immutability states that God doesn't change, has never changed, and will never change.

2. Computers. (in object-oriented programming) the characteristic of an object with a fixed structure and properties whose values cannot be changed:

   Informing the compiler about the immutability of the variable allows for optimizing the code and logic behind the implementation of the code.

Word History and Origins

Origin of immutability¹

immutabl(e) + -ity

Example Sentences

A blockchain is a distributed ledger that that records transactions in a way that ensures security, transparency, and immutability.

From Science Daily

Those words, from a scandal-scarred leader whose tenure in office might be measured in days rather than decades, were testimony not only to the queen’s longevity but also to her immutability.

From New York Times

Kasdan liked the metaphor of “the immutability of the canyon” — where the characters actually drive to in the film’s finale.

From Los Angeles Times

Their charm lies in their relative immutability; Anthony remains golden-hearted, hilariously cutting and brash, and Stanford is gentle, self-deprecating, honest and supportive as ever.

From Salon

Like the natural phenomena that inspired them, these works have a paradoxical combination of animation and immutability.

From New York Times

Related Words

• durability
• longevity
• persistence