Nugatory first appeared in English in the 17th century; it comes from the Latin adjective nugatorius, which can mean not only “trifling” or “frivolous” but also “futile.”

The giving of an order for the transfer of the tenancy to the housewife might be completely nugatory.

An adjective meaning “trifling, of no value,” nugatory comes from the Latin nugatorius, “worthless, futile,” which in turn came from the verb nugari, "to trifle or act like a fool."

1. Of little or no importance; trifling: The nation's interests in such a remote region were nugatory. 2. Unavailing, futile, or invalid: Efforts to remedy the situation proved to be nugatory.

Fact: Nugatory denotes lack of value, not inherently negative. Trap: Mistaking verbal reprimands as nugatory when they have serious consequences. Tip: Nugatory often precedes a more powerful …

To render (an effort or attempt) vain or nugatory; to baffle; to outwit; to balk; to frustrate; to defeat. By a miserable subterfuge, they hope to render this position safe by rendering it nugatory.

An adjective meaning “trifling, of no value,” nugatory comes from the Latin nugatorius, “worthless, futile,” which in turn came from the verb nugari, "to trifle or act like a fool."

What does nugatory mean? View the detailed definition, phonetic transcription, real examples, synonyms, antonyms, and usage of nugatory.

Nugatory generally means of no value, importance, or significance; trifling. It can also refer to being useless, futile, or ineffectual. Etymology: [L. nugatorius, fr. nugari to trifle, nugae jests, trifles.] nū′ga …

Definition of nugatory adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.