Effete: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'effete' comes from Latin 'effetus,' meaning 'worn out' or 'exhausted,' originally referring to animals that have given birth.
• It was first used in English in the late 15th century, carrying the sense of something that is no longer productive.
• Over time, its meaning expanded to include people and things showing signs of weakness or decay.

Literature

• In literature, this term often describes characters who are losing their vigor or vitality, reflecting societal decline.
• Notable authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald and T.S. Eliot have used the term to critique the superficiality of the elite in society.
• The phrase 'effete aristocracy' often appears in historical critiques, suggesting a class that has become disconnected from real strength or virtue.

Pop Culture

• In movies, characters portrayed as effete often embody traits such as pretentiousness or a lack of physical prowess, contrasting with more rugged protagonists.
• The term has been used in media to describe certain lifestyles that prioritize aesthetics over action or substance.
• Music often critiques cultural or class ‘effeteness,’ alluding to complacency or a lack of authenticity among elites.

Psychology

• People exhibiting effete traits may struggle with motivation or creating meaningful impacts in their lives, reflecting disengagement.
• In psychological terms, this can relate to burnout or loss of ambition, where individuals feel drained and incapable of thriving.
• Understanding effeteness can highlight the importance of resilience and self-care in maintaining personal vitality.

History

• Throughout history, periods of cultural flourishing, like the Roman Empire, often experienced effeteness before decline, indicating a loss of vigor.
• Critics of declining societies frequently used the term to argue that a lack of robust leadership led to an effete culture.
• Key historical texts analyze effete classes as barriers to progress, emphasizing the importance of vitality in society.

At rank #27,053, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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