defunct

UK: dɪˈfʌŋkt | US: dɪˈfʌŋkt

Definition

  1. adj. no longer existing or functioning

  2. adj. no longer in use or valid

  3. adj. (of a person) deceased

Structure
de <off, away>funct <perform>
Etymology

The word defunct originates from Latin defunctus, the past participle of defungi ("to finish" or "to discharge"). It originally referred to completing a task or duty, later evolving to mean "ceased to exist" (for objects/institutions) or "deceased" (for people). The morpheme de- emphasizes the conclusion or cessation of the root funct's action.

Examples

  1. The company became defunct after filing for bankruptcy.

  2. Many defunct laws remain in old legal texts.

  3. The software is now defunct due to lack of updates.

  4. His defunct phone was replaced with a newer model.

  5. The artist’s defunct works were rediscovered decades later.