incomparable
Americanadjective
-
beyond comparison; matchless or unequaled.
incomparable beauty.
- Synonyms:
- inimitable, unrivaled, peerless
-
not comparable; incapable of being compared to each other, as two unlike objects or qualities, or to one or more others.
adjective
-
beyond or above comparison; matchless; unequalled
-
lacking a basis for comparison; not having qualities or features that can be compared
Other Word Forms
- incomparability noun
- incomparableness noun
- incomparably adverb
Etymology
Origin of incomparable
First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English word from Latin word incomparābilis. See in- 3, comparable
Explanation
Something incomparable cannot be compared to anything else. Incomparable is usually a compliment for people and achievements that are extraordinary. When we compare things, we notice similarities and differences between them. However, when something is incomparable, comparison is impossible because what you're talking about is so amazing. You might say that the paintings of Picasso are incomparable masterpieces or that the Grand Canyon is an incomparable sight. People do tend to exaggerate, but this word should be reserved for the truly outstanding.
Vocabulary lists containing incomparable
Letters to a Young Poet
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"Wilderness Letter"
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The Turn of the Screw
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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.
The incomparable star is a vision in studded white or powder-blue jumpsuits—cavorting, emoting, karate-chopping and spreading the bat wings of his sewn-on cape in a move that never fails to thrill the audience.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026
What does the leadership transition mean for Buffett’s incomparable creation and its shares?
From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026
But in this context, it serves for both Salzburg and Los Angeles, as an incomparable goodbye to Wilson.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 6, 2025
"His incomparable artistic signature will be a crucial asset in writing the next chapter of the history of the House of Dior."
From BBC • Jun. 2, 2025
The curriculum at Miss Preston's stresses loyalty, and I have to say that my dedication to my fellow students is incomparable.
From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
