Entry Word: ineffective

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 not producing the desired result <an ineffective effort to move the bookcase>

Synonyms ineffectual, inefficient, inexpedient

Related Words abortive, bootless, fruitless, futile, nonproductive, pointless, unavailing, unproductive, unprofitable, unsuccessful, useless, worthless

Near Antonyms availing, beneficial, helpful, productive, profitable, successful, useful, worthwhile

Antonyms effective, effectual, efficacious, efficient, expedient

2 producing no results <an ineffective medication that will be denied FDA approval> — see futile