American Dictionary of the English Language

EFFE'TE, adjective [Latin effoetus, effetus; ex and foetus, embryo.]

1. Barren; not capable of producing young, as

animal, or fruit, as the earth. An animal becomes effete by losing the power of conception. The earth may be rendered effete by drouth, or by exhaustion of fertility.

2. Worn out with age; as effete sensuality.