PoliticsAugust 16, 2026

feckless

FEK-less

Definition

Lacking initiative or strength of character; irresponsible, ineffective, or lazy.

Etymology

Originating from the Middle Scots word 'feck', meaning 'effect' or 'value', combined with the suffix '-less'. It originally meant 'effectless' or lacking vigor and purpose.

In the news

Michael Marra uses the word to criticize the Scottish National Party (SNP), accusing them of being ineffective and failing the Scottish population over their two decades in power.

Marra says Scottish Labour ‘must rediscover its soul’

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Daily Business

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