inexhaustible
UK[ˌɪnɪɡˈzɔːstəbl]US[ˌɪnɪɡˈzɔːstəbl]
adj
existing in very great amounts so that it can never be finished or used up
adj
(of a person or their efforts) very energetic and determined; tireless
Morpheme Breakdown
in
exhaust
ible
in
not
exhaust
use up completely
ible
capable of being
Etymology
the word 'inexhaustible' is built upon the latin verb 'exhaurire', which literally meant 'to draw out (a liquid) until empty', from 'ex-' ('out') and 'haurire' ('to draw, drain'). the prefix 'in-' negates this action, creating the sense of 'not able to be drained out'. the suffix '-ible' then forms an adjective meaning 'capable of'. thus, the literal morpheme combination 'not capable of being used up' evolved from a concrete image of draining a well to the modern abstract meanings of limitless supply or tireless energy.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + exhaust (use up completely) + ible (capable of being)
in- is a Latin prefix meaning 'not'. exhaust is from Latin 'exhaurire', meaning 'to draw out, use up'. -ible is a Latin suffix forming adjectives meaning 'capable of being, fit for'.
Examples
the region possesses seemingly inexhaustible reserves of coal.
she was a woman of inexhaustible patience and kindness.
his inexhaustible enthusiasm inspired the entire team.