Effete Definition

ĭ-fēt
adjective
Characterized by extreme refinement or self-indulgence, often to the point of unworldiness or decadence.
American Heritage
Having or reflecting an attitude of social superiority; pretentious or snobbish.
American Heritage
Lacking vigor, force of character, moral stamina, etc.; decadent, soft, overrefined, etc.
Webster's New World
No longer capable of producing; spent and sterile.
Webster's New World
Depleted of vitality, force, or effectiveness; exhausted.
The effete monarchies of Europe.
American Heritage

Origin of Effete

  • Latin effētus worn out, exhausted ex- ex- fētus bearing young, pregnant dhē(i)- in Indo-European roots

    From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition

  • From Latin effetus (“that has given birth; exhausted”).

    From Wiktionary

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