Definition

Something that cannot be fixed or repaired.

Example

The damage to the building was so severe that it was deemed irreparable.

Conversation

I heard that the storm caused some irreparable damage to the old library.

That's terrible! I loved that place.

Yeah, it's sad to think we might lose such a historic spot forever.

I know, some things really are irreparable once they're gone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Irreparable → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "reparare" (meaning to repair). The word "irreparable" means not able to be repaired or fixed.

Memory Tip

Think of something that cannot be "repaired" ('reparare') — the 'in-' prefix means not, so irreparable describes something that cannot be fixed.

Visually Confused Words