unenforceable
|un/en/force/a/ble|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˌʌnɪnˈfɔrsəbəl/
🇬🇧
/ˌʌnɪnˈfɔːsəbl̩/
(enforce)
compel compliance
Etymology
Etymology Information
'unenforceable' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'enforceable', which comes from the verb 'enforce'.
Historical Evolution
'enforceable' changed from the Old French word 'enforcier', which meant 'to strengthen or fortify', and eventually became the modern English word 'enforce'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not capable of being enforced', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not capable of being enforced or put into effect.
The contract was deemed unenforceable due to its vague terms.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45