Definition

Not able to feel or experience emotions, pain, or suffering; unfeeling.

Example

Despite the tragedy around him, he remained impassible and did not show any emotion.

Conversation

I can't believe how impassible he seems when discussing his feelings.

Right? It's like nothing affects him at all.

I wonder if he ever actually feels anything deep down.

Maybe he just learned to be impassible to protect himself.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Impassible is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "passibilis" (from Latin "passus", meaning able to be passed). The word describes something that cannot be passed or crossed.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to be 'passed' ('passibilis') — that's why impassible means something that cannot be crossed.

Visually Confused Words