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irrevocable

adjective

/ɪˈrɛvəkəbəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of irrevocable

Cannot be changed or undone
"The damage caused by the fire was irrevocable and could not be undone."

Detailed meaning of irrevocable

This word is often used to describe decisions or actions that have significant consequences and cannot be easily reversed. For example, an irrevocable decision might be a choice to leave a job or end a relationship, or a legal agreement that cannot be cancelled or modified. The prefix "ir-" means "not" or "without", while the root word "revocable" comes from the Latin verb "revocare", meaning "to call back" or "to revoke". Together, these elements suggest the idea of something that cannot be called back or revoked, making it permanent and unchangeable. Overall, the adjective "irrevocable" suggests a sense of finality and permanence, indicating that a decision or action has been taken that cannot be reversed or undone.

Example sentences containing irrevocable

1. The decision to quit my job was irrevocable, and I felt a sense of relief afterward.
2. The loss of a loved one leaves an irrevocable void in our hearts.
3. Signing the contract meant accepting the irrevocable terms and conditions.
4. The damage caused by the natural disaster was irrevocable and required extensive restoration efforts.
5. Trust once broken can lead to irrevocable damage to relationships.
6. The judge's ruling had an irrevocable impact on the defendant's life.

History and etymology of irrevocable

The adjective 'irrevocable' has its etymological roots in the Latin language. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'revocare,' which means 'to call back' or 'to revoke.' The prefix 'ir-' in English serves as a negation, indicating the absence or opposite of a particular quality. When we combine 'ir-' with 'revocare,' it transforms into 'irrevocabilis' in Latin, signifying something that cannot be called back or undone. Over time, this Latin term evolved into the English word 'irrevocable,' retaining its fundamental meaning of being unalterable or impossible to change, fittingly reflecting its etymological origins.

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Further usage examples of irrevocable

1. Our friendship took an irrevocable turn when she betrayed my trust.
2. The irrevocable decision to move abroad brought about a whole new chapter in my life.
3. The irreversible consequences of our actions serve as a reminder to think before we act irrevocably.
4. The scientific discovery had an irrevocable effect on our understanding of the universe.
5. The company's bankruptcy resulted in the irrevocable loss of many employees' jobs.
6. The memories we create together are irrevocable and last a lifetime.
7. The irrevocable truth is that time waits for no one.
8. Despite the apologies, the damage was irrevocable, and the friendship couldn't be repaired.
9. The artist's decision to destroy his artwork was met with irrevocable controversy.
10. The irrevocable decision to end their marriage marked the beginning of a new chapter for both of them.
11. The irrevocable bond between siblings cannot be broken, no matter the circumstances.
12. The irrevocable loss of their home due to the fire left them devastated.
13. The decision to sell their family heirlooms was a difficult but irrevocable one.
14. The decision to close the factory was irrevocable and could not be changed.
15. Signing the contract meant that the agreement was irrevocable.
16. Once the court makes a ruling, it is usually considered irrevocable.
17. The mistake I made was irrevocable, and I couldn't go back and fix it.
18. The breakup of their relationship was irrevocable, and they could not reconcile.
19. The decision to sell the family home was irrevocable, and they would have to move out soon.
20. The company's bankruptcy was an irrevocable event that had a major impact on the industry.
21. The doctor's diagnosis was irrevocable, and there was no chance of a different outcome.
22. The loss of their loved one was an irrevocable tragedy that would always stay with them.
23. The damage caused by the hurricane was irrevocable, and it would take years to rebuild.