Definition

Something that cannot be opened or accessed.

Example

The box was unopenable, no matter how hard I tried.

Conversation

I tried to open that old box in the attic, but it seems totally unopenable.

Really? I thought you could just pry it open with something.

I did, but it looks like it’s been sealed for years.

That’s too bad; it must be hiding some interesting stuff!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unopenable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "open" (from Old English "openian", meaning to make open) and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "unopenable" means not capable of being opened.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'open' — this helps you remember that 'unopenable' means something that cannot be opened.

Visually Confused Words