Definition of effete

The word "effete" has a rich history dating back to the 15th century. It originates from the Latin word "effetus," which means "having brought forth" or "produced." In the 16th century, the word evolved to describe something that has been exhausted or depleted, often in a physical sense. For example, a field that has been farmed extensively might be described as "effete" because it has been depleted of its fertility. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include connotations of decline, degeneracy, or lack of vitality. In the 19th century, the word became associated with the idea of something being weakened or enfeebled, whether physically, morally, or intellectually. Today, "effete" is often used to describe something or someone that is perceived as weak, decadent, or lacking in vigor or resilience.