flaccid

[ flas-id, flak-sid ]

adjective

1. soft and limp; not firm; flabby:

   flaccid biceps.

2. lacking force; weak:

   flaccid prose.

flaccid

/ ˈflæs-; ˈflæksɪd /

adjective

1. lacking firmness; soft and limp; flabby

Derived Forms

• ˈflaccidly, adverb
• flacˈcidity, noun

Other Words From

• flac·cid·i·ty [fla-, sid, -i-tee, flak-], flac·cid·ness noun
• flac·cid·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of flaccid¹

First recorded in 1620–30; from Latin flaccidus “flabby, drooping,” equivalent to flacc(ēre) “to grow weak, languish” + -idus -id ⁴

Word History and Origins

Origin of flaccid¹

C17: from Latin flaccidus , from flaccus

Example Sentences

Nevertheless, its spread is troubling because the virus can lead to a rare and debilitating neurological condition called acute flaccid myelitis, or AFM.

From Los Angeles Times

We are mired in a sense of placid, flaccid normalcy when none exists.

From Salon

He means well, regardless of the overall impression that his lyrical skills are mediocre and his backing tracks flaccid.

From Salon

But in most cases they were either permanently flaccid or permanently erect — neither of which was an especially satisfying arrangement for anyone involved.

From New York Times

It’s all about the money, control, revenge and keeping his fat, flaccid hindquarters out of prison.

From Salon