insurmountable

adjective

in·​sur·​mount·​able ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇n-tə-bəl How to pronounce insurmountable (audio)
Synonyms of insurmountable
: incapable of being surmounted : insuperable
insurmountable problems
insurmountably
ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇n-tə-blē How to pronounce insurmountable (audio)
adverb

Synonyms of insurmountable

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Examples of insurmountable in a Sentence

They were faced with several insurmountable obstacles. the familiar story of the underdog who ultimately triumphs despite insurmountable odds
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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.
Maybe your favorite wrestler finally overcomes insurmountable odds to become a world champion. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 2 Sep. 2026 But writing a memoir about her lifelong relationship with Freddie Mercury felt insurmountable. — Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026 Everyone loses, particularly the regular citizens of both countries involved, who face sometimes insurmountable shocks to their businesses. — New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 31 Aug. 2026 Addressing the issue remains a seemingly insurmountable task. — Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for insurmountable

Word History

First Known Use

1690, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insurmountable was in 1690

Rhymes for insurmountable

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Browse Nearby Words

insurgescence
insurmountable
insurrect
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Cite this Entry

“Insurmountable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insurmountable. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

insurmountable

adjective
in·​sur·​mount·​able ˌin(t)-sər-ˈmau̇nt-ə-bəl How to pronounce insurmountable (audio)
: incapable of being surmounted
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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