ENGLISH
REFERENCE

indelible

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˌɪnˈdɛɫɪbəɫ// UK //ɪndˈɛləbəl// in·deli·ble
Definition

adj. impossible to remove or forget. You use this to describe something that leaves a permanent mark, like a deep scar or a strong memory.

adj. impossible to remove or erase; lasting permanently. Often describes physical marks or deep-seated psychological impressions.


SIMPLE

The ink on the document is indelible.

CONTEXTUAL

The experience of the war left an indelible mark on the entire generation.

COMPLEX

The artist used a special pigment to ensure the signature remained indelible, even after decades of exposure to the elements.

Origin

From Latin indelebilis (“indestructible”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated May 20, 2026