impenetrability

[ im-pen-i-truh-bil-i-tee, im-pen- ]

noun

1. the state or quality of being impenetrable.
2. Physics. that property of matter by virtue of which two bodies cannot occupy the same space simultaneously.

Word History and Origins

Origin of impenetrability¹

First recorded in 1655–65; impenetr(able) + -ability

Example Sentences

Stewart spent most of her life building a façade of impenetrability and invulnerability, controlling and crafting an image of calm, assured expertise.

From Salon

Despite the lack of leaves, the blackened trunks and fingerlike branches filled in all gaps, making the forest a huge ruin of impenetrability.

From Literature

The picture’s core flaw remains Phoenix’s Napoleonic impenetrability.

From Seattle Times

Within hours, its impenetrability was exposed as flawed.

From BBC

To propagate the legend of the BlackBerry’s impenetrability, the D.E.A. also sent drug informants back to their gangs.

From New York Times

Related Words

• durability
• hardness
• inflexibility
• toughness