indispensable

adjective

in·​dis·​pens·​able ˌin-di-ˈspen(t)-sə-bəl How to pronounce indispensable (audio)
1
: absolutely necessary : essential
an indispensable member of the staff
2
: not subject to being set aside or neglected
an indispensable obligation
indispensability noun
indispensable noun
indispensableness noun
indispensably adverb

Examples of indispensable in a Sentence

fully aware that he was an indispensable assistant, he decided that it was high time that he be paid what he was worth
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.
As consumers demand more convenience and innovation, small businesses will continue to stand out by embracing creativity and flexibility, reinforcing their indispensable role in driving economic growth and innovation in the year ahead. Allbusiness, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025 Though not a great way to heat a whole home, a portable heater is indispensable for a late-evening movie night, a workbench in a chilly garage, or the home’s odd corners that refuse to heat. Matthew Korfhage, WIRED, 6 Jan. 2025 The indispensable role of scientists and medical professionals, and world class research, mobilized in fighting COVID-19 should underscore their central role in addressing future medical threats. William A. Haseltine, TIME, 3 Jan. 2025 The country also produces 60 percent of the world's germanium, indispensable for infrared optics like night-vision devices and laser targeting systems. Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for indispensable 

Word History

First Known Use

1653, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of indispensable was in 1653

Dictionary Entries Near indispensable

Cite this Entry

“Indispensable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indispensable. Accessed 16 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

indispensable

adjective
in·​dis·​pens·​able ˌin-dis-ˈpen(t)-sə-bəl How to pronounce indispensable (audio)
: absolutely necessary : essential
an indispensable employee
indispensability noun

Legal Definition

indispensable

adjective
in·​dis·​pen·​sa·​ble ˌin-di-ˈspen-sə-bəl How to pronounce indispensable (audio)
: having rights so connected to the claims of the parties to an action that the action cannot be adjudicated without affecting those rights see also indispensable party at party

More from Merriam-Webster on indispensable

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