indispensable

[ in-di-spen-suh-buhl ]

adjective

1. absolutely necessary, essential, or requisite:

   an indispensable member of the staff.

   Synonyms: needed

2. incapable of being disregarded or neglected:

   an indispensable obligation.

noun

1. a person or thing that is indispensable.

indispensable

/ ˌɪndɪˈspɛnsəbəl /

adjective

1. absolutely necessary; essential
2. not to be disregarded or escaped

   an indispensable role

noun

1. an indispensable person or thing

Derived Forms

• ˌindisˌpensaˈbility, noun
• ˌindisˈpensably, adverb

Other Words From

• indis·pensa·bili·ty indis·pensa·ble·ness noun
• indis·pensa·bly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of indispensable¹

First recorded in 1525–35; from Medieval Latin indispēnsābilis “not subject to dispensation.” See in- ³, dispensable

Synonym Study

See necessary.

Example Sentences

“Being a good journalist is the first defense,” he adds, so getting the facts right is indispensable.

From Los Angeles Times

Molly Belle Wright plays the young Beth, but it’s the indispensable Judy Greer who hoists this project on her back and carries it.

From Los Angeles Times

California will once again play an indispensable role in defending individual liberties and protecting vulnerable communities as well as defending environmental protections.

From Los Angeles Times

While global health institutions, officials, and professionals are indispensable, we must broaden our perspective on who counts as an expert.

From Salon

While Schwesinger was indispensable for his high school team, some bad timing limited his college opportunities.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• basic
• crucial
• essential
• fundamental
• imperative
• necessary
• vital