unknowable

adjective

un·​know·​able ˌən-ˈnō-ə-bəl How to pronounce unknowable (audio)
Synonyms of unknowablenext
: not knowable
especially : lying beyond the limits of human experience or understanding
unknowability
ˌən-ˌnō-ə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce unknowable (audio)
noun

Examples of unknowable in a Sentence

a God whose nature is unknown and unknowable
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.
Listen as Koze speaks to you in the universal, unknowable language of chords and keys and rhythm. — Sam Davies, Rolling Stone, 10 Mar. 2025 The two critical and unknowable numbers can be estimated, but that is similar to saying that a group of people is running an incredibly complex machine; however, the gauges that provide vital information don’t work well. — Erik Sherman, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025 Now physicists are connecting those unknowable mathematical systems with an increasing number of physical ones and thereby beginning to map out the hard boundary of knowability in their field as well. — Charlie Wood, Quanta Magazine, 7 Mar. 2025 Another unknowable factor is what substances the chemicals will encounter after they’re released in people’s homes, such as particulate matter. — Matt Fuchs, TIME, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unknowable

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unknowable was in the 14th century

Rhymes for unknowable

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unknowable
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Cite this Entry

“Unknowable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unknowable. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

unknowable

adjective
un·​know·​able ˌən-ˈnō-ə-bəl How to pronounce unknowable (audio)
ˈən-
: not knowable
some facts in the case may remain unknowable

More from Merriam-Webster on unknowable

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for unknowable

Nglish: Translation of unknowable for Spanish Speakers

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