irresistible

[ir-i-zis-tuh-buhl]

adjective

1. not resistible; incapable of being resisted or withstood.

   an irresistible impulse.

2. lovable, especially calling forth feelings of protective love.

   an irresistible puppy.

3. enticing; tempting to possess.

   an irresistible necklace.

noun

1. an irresistible person or thing.

irresistible

/ ˌɪrɪˈzɪstəbəl /

adjective

1. not able to be resisted or refused; overpowering

   an irresistible impulse

2. very fascinating or alluring

   an irresistible woman

Other Word Forms

• irresistibility noun
• irresistibly adverb
• irresistibleness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of irresistible¹

From the Medieval Latin word irresistibilis, dating back to 1590–1600. See ir- ², resistible

Example Sentences

Mr. Osman’s irresistible characters are resolute in old age, even in the face of mortal danger.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Ghosh was irresistible, hitting 58 from 33 balls after the fall of the seventh wicket, and showing herself to be a 360 player with boundaries all around the ground.

Read more on BBC

But without clear enforcement, it may prove be irresistible.

Read more on Barron's

The bet, however, is that the bedlam that happens in a kitchen makes for high, irresistible drama.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

With butter, eggs and a full cup of unsweetened applesauce, the crumb is soft, tender and irresistible.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• alluring 
• charming 
• fascinating 
• inevitable 
• inexorable 
• invincible 
• overpowering 
• overwhelming 
• potent 
• powerful 
• seductive 
• tempting 
• unavoidable