What does indivisible mean?
Indivisible describes something that cannot be divided, separated, or broken into smaller parts. The word is often used for mathematical or scientific units, but it can also characterize agreements, rights, relationships, or principles that lose their meaning if divided. It conveys more than simply being difficult to separate: it suggests that division would destroy the integrity or essential character of the thing. In law and politics, an indivisible right or obligation must be treated as a complete unit rather than apportioned. The adjective is formal and less common than the everyday expression “cannot be split.” Its historical association with the idea of the atom also gives it a memorable connection: the word once expressed the notion that matter ultimately consisted of particles that could not be divided.
adjectiveUnable to be divided or separated into smaller parts. In mathematics and physics, it may describe a unit that cannot be broken down into smaller components.
- Unable to be divided or separated into smaller parts.
- Existing or treated as a single, unbreakable unit.
"The agreement was treated as indivisible, with every clause requiring unanimous approval."
"The team regarded the partnership as indivisible and refused to negotiate its terms separately."
"In the experiment, the particle behaved as though it were an indivisible unit."
Once considered the smallest possible piece of matter, the atom was famously described as indivisible—until physics proved otherwise.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indivisible come from?
The word comes from the Latin indivisibilis, meaning “not divisible” or “unable to be divided.” It was formed from in-, a prefix expressing negation, and dividere, “to divide,” with the suffix -ibilis, indicating capability or possibility. The same Latin family produced forms such as divide, division, and divisible, while visibility belongs to a broader root concerned with seeing. English adopted the word in the 16th century, initially in mathematical and legal contexts.
Related word forms
How indivisible is actually used
The word is formal and relatively uncommon in everyday speech. It is especially used in mathematics, physics, law, and discussions of abstract principles or relationships that must remain complete.
Easily confused with indivisible
Indivisible means impossible to divide or separate, whereas invisible means unable to be seen.