unbreakable

Word family

• break
  verbA1
• break
  nounA2
• broken
  adjectiveA2
• breakable
  adjectiveB1
• breakage
  nounB2

Synonym discussion

Sense: adjective/1

Unbreakable is the strongest everyday word in this group. It suggests that an object can take hard use without cracking or snapping, especially in ads for cups, toys, or phone cases. Durable is broader and less absolute: a durable bag can last for years even if it may still tear or dent. Sturdy focuses on solid construction, so a sturdy chair feels firm and safe, not necessarily impossible to break. Tough often highlights resistance to force or rough conditions, especially for materials. Shatterproof is narrower and usually used for glass or plastic that will not break into sharp pieces. A child's cup may be unbreakable, a hiking backpack durable, a wooden table sturdy, and safety glasses shatterproof.

Common collocations

Etymology

Built in English from the negative prefix 'un-' and 'breakable'. The base verb 'break' comes from Old English brecan, while the suffix '-able' reached English through French from Latin and adds the idea of what something can do or have done to it. Put together, the word describes something designed so it does not break in ordinary use.