The word "incorrigibility" can be a challenge to spell, but breaking it down can make it easier. The first syllable is "in," pronounced as /ɪn/, followed by "corrigi" pronounced as /kəˈrɪdʒi/. The final syllable is "bility," pronounced as /bɪləti/. Altogether, the word is pronounced as /ɪnkəˌrɪdʒəˈbɪləti/. The word refers to the state of being unable to be corrected or reformed, and may be used to describe a person's behavior or character.
Incorrigibility refers to the inherent quality or state of being incapable of correction or reform. It is a term commonly used in the context of human behavior, particularly in relation to someone's resistance or refusal to adopt or adjust their conduct, attitudes, or habits despite repeated efforts to change or improve them.
An incorrigible individual is typically characterized by their steadfastness in maintaining negative, harmful, or undesirable behaviors or traits, despite receiving instruction, guidance, or punishment intended to modify their conduct. They display a stubborn resistance to correction or reformation, often disregarding rules, social norms, or societal expectations.
This term is also employed in legal settings, particularly with regards to the determination of sentencing or treatment options for individuals who exhibit persistently deviant, criminal, or antisocial behavior. The incorrigible label, in these cases, suggests that the individual has repeatedly demonstrated an unwillingness or inability to be rehabilitated or respond positively to intervention measures or therapy.
Incorrigibility implies a sense of permanence, suggesting a deep-seated resistance to change that goes beyond mere defiance or rebelliousness. It conveys the notion that the individual, due to their disposition or ingrained characteristics, is unlikely to be influenced or altered by external forces, making correction or reform extremely challenging or even impossible.
The quality of being depraved or bad beyond correction; hopeless depravity in persons.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "incorrigibility" has its roots in the Latin language. It is derived from the Latin word "incorrigibilis", which is composed of two parts: "in-" and "corrigibilis".
The prefix "in-" in Latin often signifies negation or lack of something. In this case, it denotes the absence of correction or the inability to be corrected.
The second part of the word, "corrigibilis", comes from the verb "corrigere" which means "to correct". When combined with the suffix "-ibilis", it forms an adjective that means "able to be corrected" or "capable of being corrected".
Thus, when put together, "incorrigibilis" means "not able to be corrected" or "not capable of being corrected". Over time, this Latin term evolved into the English word "incorrigibility" with a similar meaning.