THE WORDCRAFT DEFINITION DICTIONARY
effete
adjective
Weakened or depleted to the point of ineffectiveness.
Local English device voice, when available. This is not a recorded dictionary pronunciation.
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Usage note
The intended meaning concerns depleted vigor or effectiveness. Other historical uses can be disparaging; they are not interchangeable with this sense.
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Examples in context
The satire portrays an effete ruling class unable to respond to change.
The once vigorous institution had become effete.
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Related meanings
Related words can differ in tone and context; they are not always interchangeable.
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Vocabulary Studio 23: Edifice to emissaryReading 1 / Open lessonAPPLY IT AND RETURN
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This entry is part of the vocabulary collection supplied by GlobalRPh. Definitions are concise study meanings. Examples combine original teaching sentences with selected passages adapted from the supplied study notes; their source is labeled beside each example. A word may have additional specialized or historical senses.
Term requested in the October 5, 2026 supplied word list. Definition, alternatives and examples authored for WordCraft; WordNet senses and targeted dictionary checks inform the lexical review.
Source study sections: October 2026 additions.
The intended meaning concerns depleted vigor or effectiveness. Other historical uses can be disparaging; they are not interchangeable with this sense.
Dictionary scope and sources