Unable to be touched or grasped physically; not having physical substance. Often refers to abstract concepts, feelings, or qualities that exist but cannot be measured materially.
From Latin 'intangibilis,' from 'in-' (not) + 'tangere' (to touch). The root 'tang' means touch, as seen in 'tangible.' The word entered English in the 17th century to describe things that exist but cannot be physically handled.
Break it down: 'in-TANGIBLE' means 'not able to be touched.' Think of love, happiness, or reputation—these are real and valuable but you can't literally grab them with your hands. They're intangible assets of life!
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