irrelevance

noun

ir·​rel·​e·​vance i-ˈre-lə-vən(t)s How to pronounce irrelevance (audio)
Synonyms of irrelevancenext
1
: the quality or state of being irrelevant
2
: something irrelevant

Synonyms of irrelevance

Relevance
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Examples of irrelevance in a Sentence

the irrelevance of the comment brought conversation to a standstill
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Heat had slipped to mediocrity; worse, irrelevance. — Miami Herald, 23 June 2026 Backing them is a strategic hedge against irrelevance. — Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 8 June 2026 This is a proud franchise and fan base, and suffering through a decade of irrelevance has been tough to stomach for all involved. — Max Bultman, New York Times, 9 June 2026 In an era of AI and rapid change, treating customers as mere constraints is a recipe for irrelevance. — Steve Denning, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for irrelevance

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of irrelevance was in 1843

Rhymes for irrelevance

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Browse Nearby Words

irrelative
irrelevance
irrelevancy
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Cite this Entry

“Irrelevance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irrelevance. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Legal Definition

irrelevance

noun
ir·​rel·​e·​vance ir-ˈre-lə-vəns How to pronounce irrelevance (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being irrelevant
2
: something that is irrelevant

More from Merriam-Webster on irrelevance

Nglish: Translation of irrelevance for Spanish Speakers

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