impossibility

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   Something that is impossible.

   Meeting the deadline is an impossibility; there is no way we can be ready in time.

2. 2
   noun

   The quality of being impossible.

   1548, Edward Hall, The Union of the Two Noble and Illustre Families of Lancastre and Yorke, London: Richard Grafton, Henry VIII, year 15, After long reasonyng, there wer certain appoynted, to declare the impossibilite of this demaunde to the Cardinal,

3. 3
   noun

   The state of being unable to do something.

   Here by this petition whan we say, Leade vs not into temptation, we learne to know our own impossibilitie and infirmitie, namely that we bee not able of our owne selues to with∣stand this great and mightye enemye the deuill.

4. 4
   noun

   an alternative that is not available

5. 5
   noun

   incapability of existing or occurring

Etymology

From Middle French impossibilité, from Latin impossibilitās. By surface analysis, im- + possibility and impossible + -ity.