Imperturbable
hardPositive toneim-per-TUR-buh-bul
adjective
Definition
unable to be upset or agitated; calm
Memory hook
IMPERTURBABLE = 'IM (not) + PERTURB': you cannot PERTURB (disturb) this person at all; perfectly calm.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The veteran pilot remained imperturbable as the engine warning blared.”
“Nothing could rattle her imperturbable calm during the interrogation.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The veteran pilot remained ______ as the engine warning blared.”
Show answer
imperturbable
Categories
GRE Tip
Imperturbable is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "unflappable" or "composed" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "excitable".
Related GRE Words
composed
Having one's feelings and expression under control; calm
equanimity
mental calmness and composure, especially under stress
impassive
showing no emotion or expression
irascible
easily angered; quick-tempered
phlegmatic
having an unemotional, stolidly calm disposition
stolid
showing little or no emotion; impassive
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