# untouchable

/ənˈtətʃəbəɫ/ (US) · /ʌntˈʌtʃəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/untouchable
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

impossible to reach, touch, or change. You use this to describe someone who is so powerful or successful that nobody can hurt or criticize them.

For teachers: beyond the reach of criticism, punishment, or physical contact. Often describes a person or entity whose status or power provides immunity from legal or social consequences.

## Examples

- The champion seems untouchable after winning ten matches in a row.
- The corrupt politician believed he was untouchable until the new evidence came to light.
- In the early years of the tech boom, the company's market dominance made it appear untouchable, but shifting consumer habits eventually eroded its influence.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'seem', 'feel', or 'become'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.