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Synonyms

irreplaceable

American  
[ir-i-pley-suh-buhl] / ˌɪr ɪˈpleɪ sə bəl /

adjective

  1. incapable of being replaced; unique.

    an irreplaceable vase.


irreplaceable British  
/ ˌɪrɪˈpleɪsəbəl /

adjective

  1. not able to be replaced

    an irreplaceable antique

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of irreplaceable

First recorded in 1800–10; ir- 2 + replaceable

Explanation

The adjective irreplaceable describes anything that's one of a kind, particularly if it has deep sentimental value to you, like your grandmother's irreplaceable engagement ring. When you replace something, you get something that's just like it, but if something is irreplaceable, there's just no substitute. It might be a special thing given to you by a loved one, like your great-grandfather's pocket watch or something that can't be made again, like an irreplaceable painting or an old floor made from a species of wood that's no longer harvested.

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Vocabulary lists containing irreplaceable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Irreplaceable structures aided by the initial projects include some of the nation’s 2,500 historic wooden churches, known as tserkvas.

From New York Times • Sep. 8, 2022

They responded with remarkable vocal dexterity in a raucous rendition of Irreplaceable.

From The Guardian • Jun. 26, 2020

Luke Perry - Irreplaceable beautiful and kind human being, incredible friend, generous actor and adoring father to Jack and Sophie and loving partner to Madison we are all heartbroken.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 4, 2019

"Irreplaceable - such sweet words. Worth more than any gift."

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2018

Irreplaceable natural resources are exhausted by one use.

From Civilization and Beyond Learning from History by Nearing, Scott

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