Impotent

/ˈɪm.pə.tənt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Unable to take effective action; helpless or powerless.

Despite his attempts to fight against the injustice, he felt impotent in the face of such systemic problems.

Lacking physical strength or vigor.

After the illness, she felt impotent and unable to perform her daily activities.

Unable to achieve an erection or sexual intercourse.

He was embarrassed to admit that he had been impotent for several months.

Middle English, from Latin 'impotentem' (powerless) from 'in-' (not) + 'potens' (powerful).

impotent rage

A feeling of anger that one cannot act upon.

impotent frustration

The feeling of being stuck and unable to change a situation.

potent

Having great power, influence, or effect.

impotence

The condition of being impotent.

Having no significance or influence.

His complaints were seen as impotent in the grand scheme.

Feeling demoralized or defeated.

After that loss, the team felt completely impotent.