implacable

The Word of the Day for July 13, 2026, is "implacable," an adjective. It describes something or someone that cannot be appeased or changed. For instance, a project might face implacable community resistance, leading to its cancellation. The term implies an unyielding opposition.In literature, authors like Agatha Christie present a resolution to conflicts, unlike stories where an implacable foe is only temporarily deterred. The word "implacable" originates from the Latin verb "placare," meaning "to soothe." The "im-" prefix, a variant of "in-," negates this soothing quality.Therefore, an implacable entity cannot be soothed, often signifying trouble. It commonly modifies words like "foe," "enemy," "hatred," and "hostility." While its opposite, "placable," means "easily soothed," it is rarely used.Another related word from "placare" is "placate," meaning "to soothe or appease." "Placate" is frequently used when an angry person's feelings are calmed. Thus, "implacable" denotes an unchangeable and unyielding nature.