indefinable

adjective

in·​de·​fin·​able ˌin-di-ˈfī-nə-bəl 

: incapable of being precisely described or analyzed

indefinable feelings

an indefinable concept

indefinability

ˌin-di-ˌfī-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

indefinable noun

indefinableness

ˌin-di-ˈfī-nə-bəl-nəs 

noun

indefinably

ˌin-di-ˈfī-nə-blē 

adverb

Synonyms

• incommunicable
• indescribable
• ineffable
• inenarrable
• inexpressible
• nameless
• uncommunicable
• unspeakable
• unutterable

Examples of indefinable in a Sentence

He has an indefinable quality that draws people to him.

some indefinable quality makes that movie star very appealing

Recent Examples on the Web

An indefinable musical by a French auteur is headed for millions of streaming subscribers. —Joe Reid, Vulture, 8 Nov. 2024

Abstract images composed of indefinable light and inky darkness recur as well, even in his later multiscreen video installations, which are more narrative-driven. —Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 3 Sep. 2019

When the two creatives become housemates, an indefinable friendship sparks. —Lizz Schumer, Peoplemag, 24 June 2024

The Coens are true American classics, indefinable and incomparable. —Tim Moffatt, EW.com, 26 Jan. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1810, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

indefinable

adjective

in·​de·​fin·​able ˌin-di-ˈfī-nə-bəl 

: incapable of being exactly described or analyzed

indefinably

-blē 

adverb