Dictionaries are slowly becoming obsolete because one can always just search online for the definition of words and idiomatic expressions. And as of late, one top internet search is the definition for nugatory. What does nugatory mean? Well, we consulted our old fashioned Webster’s dictionary in the office and here’s what we found out about its definition. nu-ga-to-ry \ˈnü-gÉ™-ËŒtȯr-Ä", ˈnyü-\ Function: adjective Etymology: Latin nugatorius, from nugari to trifle, from nugae trifles Nugatory Definition: 1 : of little or no consequence : trifling, inconsequential 2 : having no force : inoperative As used in a sentence by famous people: Benjamin Disraeli, Suez Canal Speech, 1872 I might refer to the general conviction and the common sense of society that such an investment cannot be treated as absolutely idle and nugatory. George Washington, Fourth State of the Union Address, 1782 I can not dismiss the subject of Indian affairs without again recommending to your consideration the expediency of more adequate provision for giving energy to the laws throughout our interior frontier and for restraining the commission of outrages upon the Indians, without which all pacific plans must prove nugatory. Chief Justice John Marshall, McCulloch v. Maryland (17 U.S. 316), 1819 The word “necessary” is considered as controlling the whole sentence, and as limiting the right to pass laws for the execution of the granted powers to such as are indispensable, and without which the power would be nugatory.