Meaning & Definition of word "Toothless"

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.