unattainable

adjective

un·​at·​tain·​able ˌən-ə-ˈtā-nə-bəl How to pronounce unattainable (audio)
Synonyms of unattainablenext
: not able to be accomplished or achieved : not attainable
unattainable goals
an unattainable ideal
unattainability
ˌən-ə-ˌtā-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce unattainable (audio)
noun
unattainably
ˌən-ə-ˈtā-nə-blē How to pronounce unattainable (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of unattainable

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Examples of unattainable in a Sentence

an eagle's nest in an unattainable location unfortunately, world peace is probably an unattainable ideal
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.
But city officials now say that the deadline of August 2027 is unattainable. — Amethyst Martinez, USA Today, 30 June 2026 The effect is to create a layer of talent at the top of the game that is virtually unattainable, shifting the focus of demand down the food chain. — Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 11 June 2026 The American Dream is seen under pressure, often unattainable. — Fred Backus, CBS News, 29 June 2026 Homeownership, stable employment, or even just feeding your kids are becoming more unattainable as high inflation and even higher interest rates take up a larger percentage of people’s incomes. — Jacqueline Munis, Fortune, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for unattainable

Word History

First Known Use

1662, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unattainable was in 1662

Rhymes for unattainable

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Browse Nearby Words

unattacked
unattainable
unattained
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Cite this Entry

“Unattainable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unattainable. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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