Definition

Not able to be used or operated; not functional.

Example

The equipment was declared unserviceable after the accident.

Conversation

I tried to fix my old bike, but it's completely unserviceable now.

That's too bad! How long have you had it?

I've had it for over ten years, but I guess it's time for a new one.

Yeah, sometimes it's better to get a new one than keep fixing an unserviceable bike.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unserviceable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "serviceable" (from Latin "servire", meaning to serve, and the suffix "-able", meaning capable of). The word "unserviceable" means not capable of being used or served.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'capable of serving' ('serviceable') — that's why unserviceable means something that cannot be used.

Visually Confused Words