Simple Definition of futile

from our Learner's Dictionary

futile

adjective

: having no result or effect : pointless or useless
All our efforts proved futile.
a futile and foolish gesture
They made a futile [=vain] attempt to control the flooding.

Cite this Entry

“Futile.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/futile. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.

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