incorrigible
UK[ɪnˈkɒrɪdʒəbl̩]US[ɪnˈkɔːrɪdʒəbl̩]
adj
(of a person or their behavior) not able to be changed or reformed; beyond correction.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
corrig
ible
in
not
corrig
correct
ible
able to be
Etymology
the word 'incorrigible' has a direct lineage from latin. it is formed from the latin verb 'corrigere', meaning "to set right, correct," which itself is a compound of 'com-' (an intensifier) and 'regere' (to lead straight, rule). the prefix 'in-' negates this, and the suffix '-ibilis' indicates capability. therefore, the literal construction yields "not able to be corrected." this term entered english via old french in the 14th century, initially used in theological contexts to describe sin beyond repentance, before broadening to describe any person or habit deemed impossible to reform.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + corrig (correct) + ible (able to be)
in: latin origin, a prefix meaning "not".
corrig: from latin 'corrigere', meaning "to correct, set straight".
ible: latin suffix '-ibilis', forming adjectives meaning "able to be, capable of".
Examples
he was an incorrigible optimist, always seeing the bright side.
the child's incorrigible habit of interrupting made teaching difficult.
despite numerous warnings, she remained an incorrigible gossip.