Implacable

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ɪmˈplækəb(ə)l/

Definitions

1. This term conveys a relentless and unyielding character that remains resolute despite efforts at placation
2. Indicative of an unwavering and harsh disposition, it describes a refusal to relent or show mercy
3. Characterized by an unrelenting nature that cannot be calmed or satisfied

Etymology: "Implacable" is built from a Latin word meaning "placable" with a negating prefix stacked on top. The core is "plācō," meaning to soothe, pacify or appease, which gave Latin "plācābilis," "able to be appeased." Latin then added "im-," a variant of "in-" meaning "not," producing "implācābilis," literally "unappeasable." The word's sense has stayed close to that original idea: something that cannot be calmed, moved or reconciled. The term reached English through Middle English "implācāble," which carried the sense "immitigable, unappeasable," and it came from Old French "implacable," meaning "harsh, unrelenting." French kept the word in the same form, so the modern French "implacable" is essentially unchanged from its medieval ancestor.

Synonyms: unyielding, relentless

Antonyms: forgiving, merciful