gainless

[ geyn-lis ]

adjective

1. unprofitable.
2. unavailing.

Other Words From

• gainless·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of gainless¹

First recorded in 1630–40; gain ¹ + -less

Example Sentences

We need The fine audacities of honest deed; The homely old integrities of soul; The swift temerities that take the part Of outcast right—the wisdom of the heart; Brave hopes that Mammon never can detain, Nor sully with his gainless clutch for gain.

From Project Gutenberg

O gracious God! not gainless is the loss: A glorious sunbeam gilds thy sternest frown; And while his country staggers with the cross, He rises with the crown!

From Project Gutenberg

Before them on the U-shaped table lay the problem that had teased and baffled the subcommittee through 50 gainless sessions in twice as many gainless months: how to control the production and the use of arms.

From Time Magazine Archive

O gracious God! not gainless is the loss; A glorious sunbeam gilds thy sternest frown, And while his country staggers neath the Cross, He rises with the Crown.

From Project Gutenberg

O, gracious God! not gainless is the loss!

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• abortive
• futile
• ineffective
• ineffectual
• pointless
• unproductive
• unsuccessful
• useless