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Definition of untenable

untenable

/ʌnˈtɛn.ə.bəl/
un · ten · a · ble
Adverb:untenably
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untenable Lexical Profile

untenable Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Not able to be maintained or defended against attack or objection (especially of a position, argument, or theory).

Example

"Once the new scientific evidence emerged, the researcher's original hypothesis became completely untenable."

2

Impossible to continue, endure, or occupy due to severe difficulties or adverse conditions (of a situation, role, or physical location).

Example

"Rising operational costs and supply shortages created an untenable situation for the small bakery."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for untenable

• Nearby Words

untellable
untempered
untempted
untenable
untenably
untended
untenured

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 17th century from the prefix un- ('not') and tenable, which derives from Old French tenable ('capable of being held'), ultimately from the Latin verb tenere ('to hold').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Untenable. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/untenable
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