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Feeble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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feeble

[หˆfiหbษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

physical strength

lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age or illness. Weak and delicate.

Synonyms

delicate, fragile, frail, weak.

Examples of usage

  • She was too feeble to lift the heavy box.
  • His feeble attempt to open the jar failed.
  • The old man's feeble voice could barely be heard.
  • The feeble light of the candle flickered in the wind.
Context #2 | Adjective

effort or attempt

lacking strength or effectiveness. Not convincing or impressive.

Synonyms

ineffective, insipid, paltry, weak.

Examples of usage

  • His feeble excuse did not convince anyone.
  • The team made a feeble attempt to score a goal.
  • I could hear the feeble attempt at singing from the next room.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Feeling feeble can impact one's mental state, often contributing to a sense of helplessness or low self-esteem.
  • In studies, individuals who perceive themselves as weak tend to be less likely to persevere through challenges.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, feeble characters often serve as symbols of vulnerability, highlighting the struggles of the human condition.
  • J.R.R. Tolkienโ€™s portrayal of feeble beings, such as hobbits, reveals that strength does not always correlate with physical prowess.

Health

  • A feeble immune system can lead to increased susceptibility to illnesses, making nutrition essential for strengthening health.
  • Exercise plays a crucial role in combating feelings of feebleness, as physical activity builds both muscle strength and self-confidence.

Pop Culture

  • Characters in movies often exhibit feebleness in dire situations, evoking empathy and inviting audiences to root for their growth.
  • The trend of showcasing feeble but relatable heroes in contemporary media highlights that strength can come in many forms.

Origin of 'feeble'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Latin word 'flebilis,' which means 'to weep,' signifying weakness or vulnerability.
  • In medieval times, 'feeble' was used to describe physical frailty, often linked to age or illness, emphasizing a lack of strength.

The word 'feeble' originated from the Middle English word 'feble' which came from the Old French 'feble', ultimately derived from the Latin 'flฤbilis' meaning 'lamentable' or 'wailing'. The term has been used in English since the 12th century to describe weakness or lack of strength.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,672 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.