Definition

Something that is hard to understand or read because it is unclear or confusing.

Example

The ancient script was undecipherable to modern scholars.

Conversation

I tried to read your notes from class, but they were totally undecipherable.

Really? I thought I wrote them clearly enough.

No offense, but some parts looked like a secret code!

Haha, I guess I need to work on my handwriting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Undecipherable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "decipher" (from Latin "decipherare", meaning to decode or interpret), and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "undecipherable" means not capable of being decoded or interpreted.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('un-') able to be 'decoded' ('decipher') — that's why undecipherable means it cannot be understood.

Visually Confused Words