impuissance

noun

im·​puis·​sance (ˌ)im-ˈpwi-sᵊn(t)s How to pronounce impuissance (audio) (ˌ)im-ˈpyü-ə-sən(t)s How to pronounce impuissance (audio)
ˌim-pyü-ˈi-sᵊn(t)s

Examples of impuissance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But all of that will be moot if Washington’s rushing attack is not significantly improved from the impuissance of last season. Ben Baskin, SI.com, 14 June 2018

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French, from in- + puissance puissance, power

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of impuissance was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near impuissance

Cite this Entry

“Impuissance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impuissance. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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