Definition

Something that cannot be recovered or brought back, often referring to loss or damage that cannot be fixed.

Example

After the data was deleted, it was irretrievable and could not be restored.

Conversation

I can't believe I lost my favorite book at the library.

Oh no, that's terrible! Was it a rare edition?

Yeah, and now it's just irretrievable since someone checked it out.

That really stinks; maybe you can find it again online.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Irretrievable → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not), "retrievable" (from Latin "retrahere", meaning to draw back). The word describes something that cannot be drawn back or recovered.

Memory Tip

Think of something that cannot be 'drawn back' ('retrievable') — the 'in-' means not, so irretrievable means it cannot be recovered.

Visually Confused Words