Meaning & use
impotent
Lacking the power, strength, or ability to act effectively or achieve a desired result.
See it in a sentence
The council felt impotent to stop the flooding despite weeks of emergency meetings.
His impotent rage grew as he watched the decision made without his input.
A note on using this word
In general use "impotent" describes a lack of power or influence; in medical contexts it specifically refers to male sexual dysfunction.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Another way to use it
2. adjective
Unable to achieve an erection or father children.
The medication was prescribed to treat men who reported being impotent.
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