What does inalienability mean?
Inalienability refers to the quality of being unable to be taken away or separated from something else. This concept is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as law, philosophy, or psychology. It can connote a sense of permanence or irreversibility. For example, the inalienability of human rights is a fundamental principle of international law. In psychology, the inalienability of a person's identity is a key concept. While inalienability can be a useful concept in certain contexts, it is not a commonly used word in everyday language.
nounThe quality of being inalienable; something that cannot be taken away or separated from something else.
- The quality of being inalienable; something that cannot be taken away or separated from something else.
"The inalienability of human rights is a fundamental principle of international law."
"The inalienability of human rights is a fundamental principle of international law."
"The inalienability of a person's identity is a key concept in psychology."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of inalienability
The word inalienability comes from the Latin words 'alienus,' meaning 'foreign,' and the suffix '-ability,' which forms adjectives indicating ability or capacity. The concept of inalienability has its roots in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy, where it was discussed in the context of property and rights.
How inalienability is actually used
Inalienability is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as law, philosophy, or psychology. It can connote a sense of permanence or irreversibility.