bootless

[ boot-lis ]

adjective

1. without result, gain, or advantage; unavailing; useless.

bootless

/ ˈbuːtlɪs /

adjective

1. of little or no use; vain; fruitless

   a bootless search

Derived Forms

• ˈbootlessly, adverb

Other Words From

• bootless·ly adverb
• bootless·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bootless¹

before 1000; Middle English bot ( e ) les, Old English bōtlēas unpardonable. See boot ², -less

Word History and Origins

Origin of bootless¹

Old English bōtlēas , from bōt compensation; Old Norse bótalauss

Example Sentences

Daredevil hooks up with She-Hulk after the two share a night of crime-fighting together, forcing him into a bootless superhero walk of shame the next morning.

From Washington Post

“In the Court’s view, characterization of defendant’s previous and threatened future actions as dilatory, in bad faith or unduly prejudicial would be a bootless exercise. They are, in varying degrees, all three,” he said.

From Seattle Times

Releasing a U.S. intelligence report on the murder without imposing consequences was a bootless action — a finding of wrongdoing without consequences.

From Washington Post

A melodramatic, self-destructive alcoholic, Agnes is, nonetheless, adored by Shuggie, whose days revolve around her problem — placating her, attempting bootlessly to keep her from drink and creating a ruckus.

From Washington Post

Daniel Snyder, having turned a proud franchise into a creepy, predatory and bootless operation, does one thing with wicked effectiveness: manipulate hope.

From Washington Post