incorruptible
Meaning
Incapable of being corrupted morally; not susceptible to bribery or dishonest influence.
Not subject to decay or dissolution; enduring.
Structure
Usage
The judge was widely respected as an incorruptible figure of absolute integrity.
They sought a material that was incorruptible and could withstand the harsh elements for centuries.
His reputation as an incorruptible public servant made him a target for those who preferred a more pliable official.
Etymology
The word 'incorruptible' is built from Latin components. The prefix 'in-' negates the core concept derived from 'corrumpere', a Latin verb combining 'com-' (altogether) and 'rumpere' (to break), thus conveying the sense of "utterly broken" or "spoiled," especially in a moral sense. The suffix '-ibilis' adds the meaning of "capable of being." Therefore, the literal construction means "not capable of being utterly broken or spoiled." Over time, this evolved from a physical sense of imperishability to its dominant modern abstract meaning describing a person of unwavering integrity, immune to moral decay or bribery.
Analysis
- in: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "not" or "without". - corrupt: Latin origin, from the verb 'corrumpere' meaning "to destroy, spoil, bribe". Functions as the core root. - ible: Latin suffix '-ibilis', meaning "capable of, worthy of". Functions as an adjective-forming suffix.