The word "impotent" refers to a state of being unable to take effective action or being powerless. It is often used to describe a lack of physical strength or ability, particularly in the context of men being unable to engage in sexual intercourse. However, it can also refer to a general feeling of helplessness or ineffectiveness in various situations.
The word "impotent" comes from the Latin "impotens," which means "lack of power." This is derived from "in-" meaning "not" and "potens," meaning "powerful" or "able."