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
See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

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.
Destination Marketing Organizations risk irrelevance, with only a quarter having an AI strategy, potentially losing crucial discovery moments. — Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026 As the summer went on and the Mets’ season spiraled toward irrelevance, Bichette resolved to show the rookie outfielders what a strong work ethic looks like and what being a consistent teammate includes. — Will Sammon, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 Even though Brian Daboll took the Giants back to the postseason and became Coach of the Year in the process, the Giants have fallen down since, slogging their way to irrelevance. — Mike Lupica, New York Daily News, 13 Aug. 2026 Before the whole scene of domestic bliss is cut short, Cruz and Josie discuss their looming irrelevance as human foot soldiers in a future of wars fought by machines, finding brief solace in each other’s out-of-uniform bodies. — Andy Andersen, Vulture, 9 Aug. 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

See All Rhymes for irrelevance

Browse Nearby Words

irrelative
irrelevance
irrelevancy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Irrelevance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irrelevance. Accessed 1 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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