Stillborn

/ˈstɪl.bɔrn/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Born dead; unable to live after birth.
The couple was devastated when their baby was stillborn despite a healthy pregnancy.
Not producing the desired result; ineffective or unsuccessful.
The negotiations were stillborn, as neither party was willing to compromise.
Incapable of taking shape or being realized.
The project was stillborn due to lack of funding and support.

Etymology

Derived from the combination of 'still' meaning not moving or silent, and 'born' meaning to be brought into life.

Common Phrases and Expressions

stillborn child
A child that is born dead.
stillborn idea
An idea that fails to develop or succeed.

Related Words

neonatal
Pertaining to the first month after birth.
miscarriage
The spontaneous loss of a fetus before the 20th week of pregnancy.

Slang Meanings

A failed attempt or project.
That idea was stillborn from the beginning.