irreproachable
UK[ˌɪrɪˈprəʊtʃəbl]US[ˌɪrɪˈproʊtʃəbl]
adj
so good or perfect that it cannot be criticized or found fault with.
Morpheme Breakdown
ir
reproach
able
ir
not
reproach
blame
able
capable of
Etymology
the word 'irreproachable' is a layered construction built upon the core concept of blame. its foundation is the english verb 'reproach', which entered the language via old french from vulgar latin 'repropiare', meaning "to bring back near", hence "to confront with blame". the suffix '-able' was added to form the adjective 'reproachable', meaning "deserving of blame". finally, the negative prefix 'ir-', a variant of 'in-', was attached, creating a logical negation. thus, the literal meaning "not capable of being blamed" evolved into its modern abstract sense of being beyond criticism or fault, describing an impeccable character or conduct.
Analysis
Structure: ir (not) + reproach (blame) + able (capable of)
- ir: latin origin, a prefix meaning "not", an assimilated form of 'in-' used before 'r'.
- reproach: english word of french origin, from old french 'reprochier', meaning "to blame, rebuke".
- able: latin/french origin, a suffix forming adjectives meaning "capable of, fit for, tending to".
Examples
his conduct throughout the entire affair was irreproachable.
she has an irreproachable reputation for honesty and integrity.
the judge is known for his irreproachable ethics and fairness.