Definition

Not able to function or be operated on; often used to describe something that cannot be repaired or treated, especially in a medical context.

Example

The doctors determined that the tumor was inoperable and could not be removed surgically.

Conversation

I heard your car broke down again; is it really inoperable?

Yeah, the mechanic said it's beyond repair this time.

That's such a bummer! What are you going to do now?

I guess I'll have to look for a new one since this one's inoperable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inoperable is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "operabilis" (from Latin, meaning able to be worked or operated). The word describes something that cannot be operated or is not functional.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to be 'worked' ('operabilis') — that's why inoperable means something that cannot be operated.

Visually Confused Words