rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryimmutabilityInability to change
noun

immutability

ih-myoo-tuh-BIL-uh-tee/ɪˌmjuːtəˈbɪləti/

The quality of being unchangeable.

The immutability of these records prevents anyone from changing them.

The fixed contents of a CD-ROM cannot be rewritten through the computer.
Etymology
imLatinnot
+mutLatinto change
+abilLatincapable of being
+ityLatinquality or state

The pieces describe the quality of being incapable of change. The negative applies to the capacity to change, so immutability means more than simply remaining unchanged on one occasion.

In context

Enhanced Public Domain477:19
from the moment said CLA that radium was seen to be transformed into helium people ceased to affirm the immutability of simple bodies
1900s Satire Audiobook: Anatole France - Penguin Island

More examples

  • The programmer relies on the immutability of the stored values.
  • The philosopher questions the supposed immutability of human nature.
  • Their faith rests on the immutability of God's character.

Forms

immutability

immutable adjective — Unable to change or be changed.

Similar words

permanence
Stresses lasting existence, not inability to undergo any change.
constancy
Stresses steadiness or consistency rather than impossibility of change.