insurmountable

adjective

in·​sur·​mount·​able ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇n-tə-bəl How to pronounce insurmountable (audio)
: incapable of being surmounted : insuperable
insurmountable problems
insurmountably adverb

Examples of insurmountable in a Sentence

They were faced with several insurmountable obstacles. the familiar story of the underdog who ultimately triumphs despite insurmountable odds
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As Republicans scramble in the aftermath, our campaign will continue to build insurmountable momentum needed to win next November. Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025 Amid the rift with his father, Harry spoke with his uncle Charles Spencer about changing his family’s last name to Princess Diana's surname, Spencer, but was told the legal challenges would be insurmountable. Simon Perry, People.com, 5 June 2025 This hands-on nature creates an insurmountable barrier to automation. Dr. Aviva Legatt, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025 But a government intervention that dramatically reduces tourism overnight by implementing or threatening force can be an insurmountable obstacle for many. Agustina Vergara Cid, Oc Register, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for insurmountable

Word History

First Known Use

1690, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insurmountable was in 1690

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Cite this Entry

“Insurmountable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insurmountable. Accessed 15 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

insurmountable

adjective
in·​sur·​mount·​able ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇nt-ə-bəl How to pronounce insurmountable (audio)
: incapable of being surmounted

More from Merriam-Webster on insurmountable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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