Indispensable
/ˌɪndɪˈspɛnsəbəl/
Definitions
Absolutely necessary; not subject to being set aside; essential.
/ˌɪndɪˈspɛnsəbəl/
Absolutely necessary; essential
Water is indispensable for life.
💡 Simply: Something is indispensable if you absolutely need it. Like, if you're baking a cake, flour is indispensable – you can't make a cake without it!
👶 For kids: If something is indispensable, it means you REALLY need it, like your favorite toy or a yummy snack!
More Examples
The support of his family was indispensable to his recovery.
A strong internet connection is indispensable for modern communication.
Attention to detail is indispensable for a successful architect.
How It's Used
"A good project manager is indispensable to the success of any major undertaking."
"Proper hygiene is indispensable for preventing the spread of infection."
"My morning coffee is indispensable to my productivity."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Late Latin *indispensabilis*, from *in-* (not) + *dispensare* (to dispense) + *-abilis* (able to be). Originally meant 'not able to be dispensed with' or 'essential.'
The word 'indispensable' has been used since the 17th century to describe things that are crucial and cannot be removed or replaced without significant consequences. Historically, it was often used in legal and political contexts to refer to elements of governance or law.
Memory tip
Imagine a key part of a machine that, if removed, would render the whole machine useless. That part is indispensable.
Word Origin
"Not able to be dispensed with or set aside."