Langimage
English

mechanically-inept

|me/chan/i/cal/ly-in/ept|

C1

/məˈkænɪkli ɪˈnɛpt/

lacking mechanical skill

Etymology
Etymology Information

'inept' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ineptus,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'aptus' meant 'fitting or suitable.'

Historical Evolution

'ineptus' transformed into the French word 'inepte,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inept' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'not suitable or fitting,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lacking skill or ability.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

lacking skill or ability in mechanical tasks or operations.

He is mechanically-inept and struggles with even simple repairs.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/03 08:30