invulnerable

Invulnerable is an adjective describing someone or something that cannot be wounded, harmed, or damaged. The term derives from Latin invulnerabilis, from in- “not” and vulnerare “to wound.” In everyday language it can refer to literal protection against attacks or to figurative immunity from danger, criticism, or consequences. The contrast with vulnerability (susceptibility to harm) and with invincibility (unbeatable, undefeated) is common in both speech and writing.

In physical, magical, or fictional contexts, invulnerability may be literal or temporary. A suit of armor, a magical shield, or a force field can render an individual invulnerable to certain injuries or to damage from specific weapons. In video games, invulnerability is often a temporary state, such as invincibility frames that prevent taking damage for a short period after an action. In speculative or fantasy genres, invulnerability is frequently used as a plot device, sometimes with a counterpoint like an Achilles heel or an environmental condition that can bypass the protection.

In science and engineering, no material or system is truly invulnerable; designers aim to reduce risk and extend resilience rather than guarantee absolute immunity. The term is also used figuratively to describe things that seem impervious to a threat, such as invulnerable systems, policies, or institutions, though such invulnerability is usually provisional or context-dependent.