headless
|head-less|
B2
/ˈhɛdləs/
lacking a head or leader
Etymology
Etymology Information
'headless' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'heafodlēas,' where 'heafod' meant 'head' and '-lēas' meant 'without.'
Historical Evolution
'heafodlēas' transformed into the Middle English word 'hedles,' and eventually became the modern English word 'headless.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'without a head,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'without a leader.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
lacking a head.
The headless statue stood in the middle of the garden.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
without a leader or director.
The headless organization struggled to make decisions.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/21 00:48