unmistakable
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of unmistakable
First recorded in 1660–70; un- 1 + mistakable
Explanation
Something unmistakable is so clear and obvious that it can't be confused with anything else, like the bright colors of a rainbow or the unique sound of your favorite singer's voice. The smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house is unmistakable. A famous landmark, like the Eiffel Tower, is unmistakable because of its unique shape and structure. Unmistakable also applies to sounds, such as the roar of a lion, or feelings, like the unmistakable warmth of a hug from a loved one. This word emphasizes clarity and distinctiveness, making sure there's no room for doubt or confusion.
Vocabulary lists containing unmistakable
Obvious
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Obvious
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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.
He never had an unmistakable screen personality such as Chaplin’s Tramp, Keaton’s “Great Stone Face,” or those of the various Marx Brothers doing their anarchic things.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 15, 2026
He has played a crucial part in building a collective identity that is now unmistakable, and that is no small feat with a national side.
From BBC ● Jul. 10, 2026
Cubes of sharp white cheddar bring that unmistakable Midwestern deli-counter energy, while chopped cucumber, snap peas, shaved celery and scallions keep everything cool and crunchy.
From Salon ● Jul. 7, 2026
"The signs from El-Obeid are clear and unmistakable: another human rights catastrophe is unfolding in Sudan," he warned.
From Barron's ● Jul. 3, 2026
Crude as it was, capturing none of her loveliness, it was an unmistakable likeness, from her hair—the rich dark red of wildflower honey—to the stark black band painted across her eyes like a mask.
From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor
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.
