Definition

Something that cannot be named or identified.

Example

The artist created an unnameable feeling in his painting that left viewers in awe.

Conversation

Have you ever felt scared of something unnameable?

Yeah, I think we all have those moments sometimes.

It's strange how our imagination can create unnameable fears.

Totally! Talking about it usually helps, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unnameable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "name" (from Old English "nama", meaning a word by which a person or thing is known) and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "unnameable" means not capable of being named or without a name.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'name' — this helps you remember that 'unnameable' refers to something that cannot be named.

Visually Confused Words