sleeveless
UK: ˈsliːvləs | US: ˈslivləs
adj. lacking sleeves
adj. (figurative) futile or pointless (e.g., a sleeveless errand)
The word "sleeveless" combines "sleeve," derived from Old English slēfe (a garment's arm covering), with the suffix "-less," from Old English -lēas (meaning "without"). The literal sense emerged in Middle English to describe garments without sleeves. The figurative meaning ("pointless") arose in the 16th century, likely comparing useless actions to the impracticality of a sleeveless garment in cold weather.
She wore a sleeveless dress to the summer party.
The knight's armor was oddly sleeveless for battle.
His apology felt as sleeveless as a winter coat without warmth.
The project turned into a sleeveless endeavor, wasting everyone's time.
Sleeveless tops are popular in tropical climates.