n. [ See Eft, n. ] (Zoöl.) The common newt; -- called also
a. [ L. effetus that has brought forth, exhausted; ex + fetus that has brought forth. See Fetus. ] No longer capable of producing young, as an animal, or fruit, as the earth; hence, worn out with age; exhausted of energy; incapable of efficient action; no longer productive; barren; sterile. [ 1913 Webster ]
Effete results from virile efforts. Mrs. Browning [ 1913 Webster ]
If they find the old governments effete, worn out, . . . they may seek new ones. Burke. [ 1913 Webster ]