Definition

In a way that cannot be recovered or fixed.

Example

The documents were lost irretrievably in the fire.

Conversation

I can't believe I lost that important file on my computer.

That's so frustrating! Can you recover it from the backup?

No, I checked, and it's gone irretrievably now.

Oh no, that's the worst! Maybe next time, save it in more than one place.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Irretrievably → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not), "retrievable" (from Latin "retrahere", meaning to draw back), and "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word means in a manner that cannot be drawn back or recovered.

Memory Tip

Think of something that cannot be 'drawn back' ('retrievable') and remember that 'irretrievably' means it cannot be recovered.

Visually Confused Words