unknowable etymology

Etymology

The word "unknowable" is derived from the late Middle English word "unknowable," which itself is a combination of the prefix "un-" (meaning "not") and the word "knowable" (meaning "able to be known").

Meaning

The word "unknowable" means that something cannot be known or understood, either because it is too complex or because it is beyond human comprehension. It is often used to describe things that are mysterious, enigmatic, or metaphysical.

Origin

The word "unknowable" first appeared in the English language in the 14th century. It is thought to have been coined by the philosopher William of Ockham, who used it to describe the nature of God. Ockham argued that God is unknowable because he is infinite and transcendent, and therefore beyond human understanding.

Usage

The word "unknowable" is often used in philosophy, theology, and science to describe things that are beyond human comprehension. For example, philosophers may talk about the unknowable nature of consciousness, while scientists may talk about the unknowable nature of the universe.

The word "unknowable" can also be used in everyday speech to describe things that are mysterious or difficult to understand. For example, someone might say that the motivations of a serial killer are unknowable.

Antonyms

The antonym of "unknowable" is "knowable." This means that something that is knowable can be understood or grasped by the human mind.

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