1. impossible to make smaller or simpler; unable to be reduced
2. in mathematics, unable to be factored or simplified further
Usage: mathematics

Examples

• The conflict seemed irreducible to simple terms.
• Some mathematical expressions are irreducible and cannot be simplified.
• The committee found the budget cuts irreducible without affecting services.
• This polynomial is irreducible over the rational numbers.
• The complexity of the problem appeared irreducible.
• Scientists discovered an irreducible minimum of energy required for the reaction.