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Meaning of effete
The primary meaning of the word "effete" is describing something or someone as weak or ineffective due to over-refinement or excess.
Etymology of effete
The word "effete" originates from the Latin "effetus," meaning "worn out" or "exhausted," which is a combination of "ex" (out) and "fetare" (to be in childbed), implying something that has been drained of its vitality or fertility.
Synonyms
decadent
degenerate
effeminate
weak
feeble
fragile
frail
delicate
dainty
soft
enervated
exhausted
spent
debilitated
infirm
sickly
valetudinarian
languid
lethargic
apathetic
indifferent
lukewarm
halfhearted
spineless
gutless
weak-willed
irresolute
indecisive
timid
faint
timid
cowardly
craven
pusillanimous
weakling
milksop
namby-pamby
sissy
ineffectual
ineffective
incompetent
inadequate
incapable
Definitions
- No longer fertile or productive, having lost the ability to produce new or original ideas
- Weak and ineffective, lacking strength or vitality
- Over-refined or decadent, having an excessive concern with luxury or aesthetic pleasure
Usage Examples
- The once-thriving city had become effete, its streets lined with abandoned buildings and its economy in shambles
- The effete aristocrat spent most of his days lounging on the couch, too weak to engage in any physical activity
- The company's effete management style had led to a decline in innovation and a lack of competitiveness in the market