Meaning & Definition of word "Toothless"
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Toothless
/ˈtuːθləs/
adjective:
- 1. Lacking teeth or having few teeth.
- Example: The old dog was toothless but still very playful.
- 2. Figuratively, lacking the power or effectiveness to take action.
- Example: The committee's recommendations were toothless and had no real impact on policy.
- 3. Referring to someone or something that has lost its ability to challenge or resist.
- Example: The once formidable empire became toothless after years of mismanagement and defeat.
Etymology
From tooth + -less.
Common Phrases and Expressions
toothless grin:
A smile made by someone without teeth, often used to evoke sympathy or humor.
toothless tiger:
An entity that appears powerful but is in fact ineffective.
Related Words
edentulous:
Having lost all natural teeth.
gums:
The soft tissue that covers the jawbones and holds teeth.
Slang Meanings of toothless
Meaning: Someone who is ineffective or powerless.
Example Sentence: His threats were toothless, no one took him seriously.
Meaning: A term used to describe someone's lack of bite in arguments or debates.
Example Sentence: Her arguments were so toothless, they didn't hold any weight.