ἀμετακίνητος
ametakínētos
G277 substantive adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
Unmovable, not to be moved from a place or position. The primary sense is firmness or stability, indicating something or someone that cannot be shifted, altered, or rendered unstable. In figurative contexts, it conveys steadfastness of character, resolve, or unwavering adherence to a course or commitment.
Semantic Range
not to be moved, immovable, steadfast, unshakable, firm, unwavering (in resolve or conduct)
Root / Etymology
Formed from the alpha privative (ἀ-, 'not') and μετακίνητος ('movable'), itself from μετακινέω ('to move, shift') derived from μετα- ('change, after') and κινέω ('to move'). Thus, ἀμετακίνητος means 'not able to be moved or changed.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
The term ἀμετακίνητος appears primarily in post-classical and Koine Greek, with particular attestation in Hellenistic literary and philosophical works to denote physical immovability or, in metaphorical uses, unwavering resolve and steadfastness. In the New Testament (1 Corinthians 15:58), its use is figurative, describing steadfastness in conduct or belief, emphasizing constancy amid external challenges. The semantic field overlaps with words like ἀκίνητος ('fixed, motionless'), but ἀμετακίνητος further stresses resistance to being shifted or disturbed by external forces, not merely an absence of motion. English translations such as 'unmovable' or 'immovable' accurately render the base meaning, but may miss nuanced connotations of firmness of character or stability in purpose encountered in Greek texts.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from Α (as a negative particle) and a derivative of μετακινέω; immovable:--unmovable.
Root Family
ἀμετακίνητος (ametakinetos) — not moved, immovable, steadfast, unshakable, firm
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G277-01 |
ἀμετακίνητοι | ametakinetoi | ADJ.S NOM M PL |
immovable | unmovable ones | unmovable ones | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G277-01 |
1 Corinthians 15:58 | ἀμετακίνητοι | ametakinetoi | ADJ.S NOM M PL |
immovable | unmovable ones | unmovable ones |