Toothless

Too-th-luhs

/ˈtuːθ.ləs/

Adjective

Meaning

  • Toothless means lacking teeth, either naturally or due to loss or removal.
  • It is also used metaphorically to describe something weak, powerless, or ineffective, especially a rule, law, or organization that lacks authority or the ability to enforce actions.

Examples

  • The baby smiled with a toothless grin.
  • Many believe the new policy is toothless and will not solve the real problems.
  • After losing his dentures, he struggled to eat because he was toothless.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms Antonyms
Without teeth Gumless Powerless Ineffective Weak Strong Effective Powerful Forceful Authoritative

Word Forms

  • Toothlessness (noun)

Origin / Etymology

From tooth (Old English tōþ, meaning “tooth”) + the suffix -less meaning “without.” So, “toothless” literally means without teeth.

Grammar Information

  • Used primarily as an adjective.
  • Can describe both living beings and non-living things metaphorically.
  • Structure: Tooth + less → Toothless (adjective) ; Toothless + ness → Toothlessness (noun)

Translations

  • Hindi: बिना दाँत का
  • Spanish: desdentado / sin dientes
  • French: édenté
  • German: zahnlos
  • Chinese: 无牙的
  • Arabic: بلا أسنان

Idioms & Phrases

  • Toothless law – a rule without real power
  • Toothless organization – a group lacking authority or strength
  • Toothless tiger – something that appears strong but has no real power

Related Words

  • Denture
  • Gum
  • Bite
  • Fang
  • Dental
  • Molar