Definition

Something that cannot be saved or repaired; it is beyond recovery.

Example

The damaged car was deemed unsalvageable after the accident.

Conversation

I was trying to fix my old bike, but it seems totally unsalvageable.

Oh no, that’s frustrating! What happened to it?

The frame is bent and the gears are completely shot.

Sounds like it might be time to get a new one then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsalvageable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "salvage" (from Latin "salvare", meaning to save or rescue) and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "unsalvageable" means not capable of being saved or rescued.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'save' ('salvare') and 'capable of' ('-able') — this helps you remember that 'unsalvageable' refers to something that cannot be saved.

Visually Confused Words