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Definitions

irretrievable

[ir-i-tree-vuh-buhl] / ˌɪr ɪˈtri və bəl /






Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But while all three dreamlike films expertly mimic the imperfect act of remembering, Schilinski’s makes the past seem irretrievable — a ghost whose presence we can feel but not touch.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 23, 2026

You are trying, in this book, to express the level of absolute, possibly irretrievable loss.

From Slate • Oct. 27, 2025

There were muted celebrations to begin with when Cash sent down an irretrievable overhead smash to secure victory before the pair turned to their coaching box and raised their fists in the air.

From BBC • Jul. 12, 2025

Under his now-defunct bill, at least one of the parties seeking a divorce on "irretrievable breakdown" grounds would have to present a witness who could testify to affirm the breakdown.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2025

Prim makes a sound—such a lost, irretrievable sound—that I can’t even imagine what they have done to evoke it.

From "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins




Vocabulary lists containing irretrievable