Indefinability

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The quality of being unable to be clearly or precisely described or explained
2. The state of lacking a precise or exact definition, making clear explanation difficult
3. The characteristic of being incapable of having a clear and exact meaning or description

Etymology: "Indefinability" is a plain English formation: the adjective "indefinable" (not able to be defined) with the noun-forming suffix "-ity" attached. "Indefinable" itself is built from the prefix "in-" meaning "not" and "definable," which comes from "definable," the adjective of "define." The root goes back through Old French "definer" to Latin "definire," meaning "to limit or set boundaries," from "de-" (completely) and "finire" (to end or limit), from "finis," boundary or end. The core idea is therefore a boundary. To define something was originally to mark its edges, and the thing that cannot be defined is one whose edges will not hold still. The noun names that quality of resisting a precise outline, so it is often applied to experiences, feelings or qualities, such as the indefinability of a certain charm or mood.

Synonyms: ambiguity, vagueness

Antonyms: definability, clarity