toothless

[ tooth-lis ]

adjective

1. lacking teeth. tooth.
2. without a serrated edge, as a saw.
3. lacking in force or sharpness; dull; ineffectual:

   a toothless argument.

Other Words From

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of toothless¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; tooth, -less

Example Sentences

Gaza suffered under merciless attack for months before a toothless U.N.

From Los Angeles Times

O'Hara brings weight and pathos to a role that so easily could have been a well-acted but toothless reprisal, and she does so effortlessly.

From Salon

Since state waters extend just three miles offshore, restrictions passed by California, Washington, Oregon and Hawaii are largely toothless.

From Los Angeles Times

Consequently, Justices Alito’s and Thomas’ “impartiality might reasonably be questioned” — the standard for recusal under toothless federal law — in cases involving Trump.

From Los Angeles Times

And now all the court has is a toothless set of guidelines with no enforcement mechanism.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• flat