1. lacking strength, vigor, or effectiveness; weak and ineffectual
2. having lost the physical, mental, or moral vigor of youth; decadent
Usage: often used to describe societies or cultures

Examples

• The once-powerful empire had become effete and unable to defend its borders.
• Critics dismissed the wealthy socialite as an effete member of the upper class.
• The effete political system failed to address the country’s pressing problems.
• His effete manner and soft voice contrasted sharply with his brother’s boldness.
• The revolution swept away the effete aristocracy that had ruled for centuries.
• Many viewed the art movement as effete and disconnected from real life.