irreversible

[ ir-i-vur-suh-buhl ]

adjective

1. not reversible; incapable of being changed:

   His refusal is irreversible.

irreversible

/ ˌɪrɪˈvɜːsəbəl /

adjective

1. not able to be reversed

   the irreversible flow of time

2. not able to be revoked or repealed; irrevocable
3. chem physics capable of changing or producing a change in one direction only

   an irreversible reaction

4. thermodynamics (of a change, process, etc) occurring through a number of intermediate states that are not all in thermodynamic equilibrium

Derived Forms

• ˌirreˌversiˈbility, noun
• ˌirreˈversibly, adverb

Other Words From

• irre·versi·bili·ty irre·versi·ble·ness noun
• irre·versi·bly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of irreversible¹

First recorded in 1620–30; ir- ² + reversible

Example Sentences

“Unlike previous commutations I’ve granted to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary growth and rehabilitation,” she explained, “this commutation is not based on any rehabilitative efforts by the individuals on death row. Instead, it reflects the recognition that the death penalty is immoral. It is an irreversible punishment that does not allow for correction; is wasteful of taxpayer dollars; does not make communities safer; and cannot be and never has been administered fairly and equitably.”

From Slate

“Trump and Project 2025 have pledged to expand fossil fuels as rapidly as possible which is a worst-case scenario for irreversible global overheating,” Kalmus said.

From Salon

“The science on climate change is unforgiving, with every year of delay locking in more costs and more irreversible changes, and everyday people paying the steepest price.”

From Salon

In addition, it has caused immediate physical and mental harm and suffering to women and girls and will have irreversible long-term effects on the mental health and the physical reproductive and fertility prospects of the Palestinian people as a group.

From Salon

Last year Unesco said the city should be added to a list of world heritage sites in danger, as the impact of climate change and mass tourism threaten to cause irreversible changes to it.

From BBC

Related Words

• inevitable
• permanent