Enfeeblement - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

state of weakness

Enfeeblement refers to the condition of being weakened or made feeble. This term often describes a decline in physical strength, vitality, or energy. It can be used in both a literal sense, such as in a medical context, and metaphorically, to indicate a decrease in capacity or effectiveness.

Synonyms

debilitation, feebleness, impairment, weakening.

Examples of usage

The patient's enfeeblement was evident after the long illness.
He experienced emotional enfeeblement after the traumatic event.
The enfeeblement of the country's economy led to widespread unemployment.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Enfeeblement can relate to the concept of learned helplessness, where individuals feel unable to control their environment, leading to a sense of weakness.
Chronic stress can result in a state of mental enfeeblement, making it hard to think clearly or make decisions.
Feelings of enfeeblement can often be linked to depression, where individuals may feel devoid of energy or mental strength.

Health

Enfeeblement can be caused by various medical conditions, including chronic illnesses that damage the body’s strength over time.
During recovery from surgery or illness, patients might experience temporary enfeeblement, needing physical therapy to regain strength.
Nutrition plays a significant role; a deficiency in essential vitamins can lead to physical enfeeblement.

Literature

Enfeeblement is a recurrent theme in literature, symbolizing vulnerability and the frailty of the human condition.
In Shakespeare's works, characters often experience enfeeblement, leading to tragic downfalls due to their weaknesses.
Many authors use enfeeblement to explore themes of power dynamics, illustrating how strength and weakness influence relationships.

Cultural Perspectives

In some cultures, there is a strong stigma around enfeeblement, both physically and mentally, leading to isolation for those affected.
In contrast, many spiritual traditions view enfeeblement as a chance for personal growth and introspection, promoting healing.
Artistic representations, like paintings and films, often depict the journey through enfeeblement as a pathway to resilience and recovery.

Origin of 'enfeeblement'

Main points about word origin

The term 'enfeeblement' comes from the Old French word 'enfevrer,' which means to weaken.
The prefix 'en-' indicates a process, while 'feeble' comes from Latin 'feebilis,' meaning weak.
It has been used since the late 14th century to describe both physical and emotional weakness.

The word 'enfeeblement' is derived from the verb 'enfeeble,' which has its roots in the Old French 'enfeblir,' meaning to weaken. The prefix 'en-' indicates a process or transformation, while 'feeble' comes from the Latin 'flebilis,' meaning weak or frail. The term began to appear in English during the late Middle Ages and has since been used to describe both physical weakness and a figurative decline in strength or effectiveness. Over the centuries, 'enfeeblement' has been applied in various contexts, including literature, medicine, and socio-economic discussions, reflecting its versatility in characterizing a loss of power or vitality.

Enfeeblement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations