untouchable
untouchable Lexical Profile
untouchable Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Protected from or above criticism, punishment, interference, or control.
"Because of his immense political influence, the corrupt official believed he was completely untouchable."
Unable to be rivaled, equaled, or defeated; of peerless quality or performance.
"At the height of her athletic career, her world record in the sprint seemed utterly untouchable."
Not able or allowed to be physically touched, handled, or accessed.
"The fragile ancient manuscripts are kept in sealed glass cases and remain untouchable to the general public."
• noun
A member of the lowest-status social group in the traditional Hindu caste system, historically subjected to severe social segregation and discrimination (now widely known as Dalits).
"The constitutional reforms explicitly abolished discrimination against the untouchables and guaranteed equal civic rights."
A person or law-enforcement agent who is immune to bribery, corruption, or punishment.
"A special task force of untouchables was assembled to investigate high-level financial fraud without fear of political retaliation."
Word Nuance & Usage
When referring to the historical lowest social groups in South Asia, the noun and adjective are now widely considered offensive or dated; the self-chosen term 'Dalit' is preferred in modern usage.