Definitions Related words Phrases Mentions Lyrics History

Literary notes about Incorrigible (AI summary)

The term incorrigible in literature is often employed to signal a character’s persistent, unchangeable nature—whether it be charming or exasperating. It can denote rebellious streaks or habitual flaws that seem immune to correction, as in the wry affection of Wilde’s remark, “You are quite incorrigible, Harry” ([1]). At times, it conveys an element of humor or light-hearted criticism, as when a schoolmaster chides a mischievous pupil for being “incorrigible” ([2]), or in the irony-laced confession of a character who admits to unrepentant vices ([3]). In all these contexts, the adjective serves as a succinct cue to enduring, sometimes endearing, obstinacy and defiance.
  1. "You are quite incorrigible, Harry; but I don't mind.
    — from The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
  2. Then her teacher calls her an incorrigible little sermonizer, and she laughs at herself.
    — from The Story of My Life by Helen Keller
  3. “And one which will go far to efface the recollection of his father’s conduct,” added the incorrigible marquise.
    — from The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet

More usage examples

Also see: Google, News, Images, Wikipedia, Reddit, BlueSky


Home   Reverse Dictionary / Thesaurus   Datamuse   Word games   Spruce   Feedback   Dark mode   Random word   Help


Color thesaurus

Use OneLook to find colors for words and words for colors

See an example

Literary notes

Use OneLook to learn how words are used by great writers

See an example

Word games

Try our innovative vocabulary games

Play Now

Read the latest OneLook newsletter issue: Threepeat Redux