What does indissoluble mean?
Indissoluble means impossible to dissolve, break apart, or bring to an end. In its literal sense, it can describe a substance that cannot be dissolved in a liquid or separated into its parts. More often, it describes an abstract relationship or commitment that is exceptionally firm and permanent, such as an indissoluble bond, agreement, or partnership. The word carries a strong sense of durability and permanence, often suggesting that the connection is not merely long-lasting but fundamentally unbreakable. It is more typical of formal writing, law, and descriptions of enduring personal or institutional relationships than of casual conversation. Indissoluble is related to insoluble and dissolve, but it generally emphasizes permanence rather than a physical inability to dissolve.
adjectiveUnable to be dissolved, broken up, or destroyed; permanent and unending.
- Unable to be dissolved, melted, or separated into components.
- So firm or enduring that it cannot be broken or ended.
"The two countries remain bound by an indissoluble agreement."
"The chemical forms an indissoluble residue on the surface."
"Their partnership was described as indissoluble despite years of disagreement."
An indissoluble bond describes a connection that cannot be dissolved—like the enduring link between two people or places whose relationship has become permanent.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indissoluble come from?
Indissoluble comes from Latin indissolubilis, formed from in- meaning 'not' and dissolubilis, 'able to be dissolved.' It entered English during the early 17th century in both literal and figurative senses. Its relatives include insoluble, dissoluble, and dissolve, all associated with the Latin root solvĕre, meaning 'to loosen' or 'untie.'
Related word forms
How indissoluble is actually used
The word is formal and relatively uncommon in everyday speech. It is especially associated with permanent relationships, agreements, unions, and links, and can sound emphatic or elevated.
Easily confused with indissoluble
Insoluble means unable to dissolve, especially in a liquid, whereas indissoluble describes something that cannot be broken up or made permanent and unending.