irresistibly
UK[ˌɪrɪˈzɪstəbli]US[ˌɪrɪˈzɪstəbli]
adv
in a way that is too attractive, strong, or powerful to be resisted or refused
Morpheme Breakdown
ir
resist
ibly
ir
not
resist
to stand back, withstand
ibly
in a manner that can be
Etymology
the word "irresistibly" is built upon the latin verb 'resistere', meaning "to stand back, oppose, or withstand". the prefix 'in-' (meaning "not") assimilates to 'ir-' before the root 'resist', forming the adjective "irresistible" which means "not able to be withstood". the adverbial suffix '-ibly' (a variant of '-ably') is then added to describe the manner of action. thus, the literal morphemic logic of "in a manner that cannot be withstood" evolved from a physical sense of opposition to describe abstract qualities like overwhelming charm, force, or appeal.
Analysis
Structure: ir + resist + ibly
- ir: latin origin, a prefix meaning "not".
- resist: latin origin, from 'resistere', meaning "to stand back, withstand".
- ibly: latin origin, an adverbial suffix meaning "in a manner that can be".
Examples
the aroma of freshly baked bread was irresistibly tempting.
he was irresistibly drawn to the fascinating story.
the logic of her argument was irresistibly compelling.