impotence

American  

[im-puh-tuhns] / ˈɪm pə təns /

Also impotency,

noun

1. the condition or quality of being impotent; weakness.

2. chronic inability to attain or sustain an erection for the performance of a sexual act.

3. sterility, especially in the male.

4. Obsolete.  lack of self-restraint.

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Etymology

Origin of impotence

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, variant of impotencie, from Latin impotentia “lack of self-control, weakness”; -ence, im- ², potency

Example Sentences

The treatment itself can also cause incontinence and impotence, which can significantly affect quality of life.

From BBC

The treatment itself can cause incontinence and impotence, which can significantly affect quality of life.

From BBC

Now that it is in our face with construction plans for a gaudy ballroom for the elites, as food assistance for hungry children is threatened, Republicans’ faint criticism is even more deafening in its impotence.

From Salon

In the words of veteran political commentator Nicolas Baverez: "At this critical moment, when the very sovereignty and freedom of France and Europe are at stake, France finds itself paralysed by chaos, impotence and debt."

From BBC

The truth is that the prime minister is in a position of almost total impotence – running a government with no majority in parliament, which could fall at any minute if the opposition groups so decide.

From BBC

Related Words

• helplessness
• powerlessness