intouchable

untouchable

adjective noun an-too-SHAHB-luh Rare

Usage Note

Intouchable functions as both an adjective ('beyond criticism or reach') and a noun ('an untouchable person'). In a social context it refers to the lowest caste in the Hindu caste system; in French slang it can describe someone so powerful or protected that no one dares challenge them. The 2011 French film Intouchables helped popularise the word internationally.

Examples

"Ce directeur se croit intouchable."

Natural Translation

That director thinks he is untouchable.

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