inexorable
UK[ɪnˈɛksərəb(ə)l]US[ɪnˈɛksərəb(ə)l]
adj
impossible to stop or prevent.
adj
(of a person) impossible to persuade by request or entreaty; unyielding.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
ex
orable
in
not
ex
out
orable
able to be
Etymology
the word inexorable is built from latin components. the prefix 'in-' negates the core concept, while 'ex-' means 'out'. the root is linked to the latin verb 'exorare', meaning 'to prevail upon by pleading' or 'to entreat', itself from 'orare' (to speak, pray). the suffix '-abilis' denotes capability. thus, the literal sense is 'not able to be moved by entreaty'. the meaning evolved from describing a person who cannot be swayed by speech or prayer to describing any unstoppable force or process, emphasizing an unchangeable, relentless quality.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + ex (out) + orable (able to be)
in- (latin, negative prefix), ex- (latin, prefix meaning 'out'), -orable (latin-derived suffix, from -orabilis, meaning 'able to be').
Examples
the inexorable march of technological progress continues to reshape our world.
she was inexorable in her decision, refusing all appeals for leniency.
the film portrays the inexorable tide of history that sweeps the characters along.