People considered unworthy of contact or interaction, especially the lowest caste in historical India; also means people who can't be criticized or punished.
From 'un-' (not) plus 'touchable.' Historically used for India's lowest caste excluded from normal society. Extended metaphorically to mean anyone considered above punishment or beyond reach.
The Indian caste system's 'untouchables' were literally considered so spiritually polluted that touching them would contaminate higher castes—a belief that shaped society for over 2,000 years until Gandhi fought it.
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