Emily Dickinson Lexicon

IN-AD'E-QUATE, a. [in and adequate, L. adæquatus, from adæquo, to equal.]

1. Not equal to the purpose; insufficient to effect the object; unequal; as, inadequate power, strength, resources.
2. Not equal to the real state or condition of a thing; not just or in due proportion; partial; incomplete; as, inadequate ideas of God, of his perfections, or moral government; an inadequate compensation for services.
3. Incomplete; defective; not just; as, inadequate representation or description.