Feeblest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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feeblest

[หˆfiหblษ™st ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

weakest quality

Feeblest refers to the most lacking in strength, force, or effectiveness. It can describe physical strength, as well as mental or emotional states. When someone describes an argument as the feeblest, they imply that it is the least convincing or most vulnerable to criticism. This word can also be used to critique performance that shows a lack of energy or enthusiasm.

Synonyms

inept, least strong, most ineffectual, unconvincing, weakest.

Examples of usage

  • He made the feeblest excuse for being late.
  • The team's feeblest attempts to secure a win fell flat.
  • She felt feeblest when trying to lift the box.
  • Despite his feeblest efforts, he couldn't finish the task.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many classic tales, the feeblest character often represents the underdog, who can surprise others with unexpected strength.
  • Shakespeare's works frequently explore themes around weakness and vulnerability, with 'feeblest' characters often evoking sympathy and resilience.
  • In fairy tales, feeblest figures often undergo significant growth, reflecting the journey from weakness to strength.

Psychology

  • Individuals often perceive others who show the feeblest confidence as less capable, demonstrating biases in personal and professional settings.
  • In motivational psychology, overcoming feelings of being feeblest can lead to personal growth and resilience.
  • Research shows that recognizing oneโ€™s feeblest points can be the first step toward building self-esteem and finding strength.

Pop Culture

  • In animated films, the 'feeblest' character often provides comic relief, highlighting the irony of being weak yet endearing.
  • The theme of the feeblest hero is popular in superhero stories, where an unlikely character rises to a challenge, demonstrating inner strength.
  • Various TV shows depict feeblest characters who ultimately become leaders, promoting the message that strength can come from unexpected places.

Science

  • In biology, the concept of 'feeble' might relate to organisms or adaptations that are less suited for survival in harsh environments.
  • The feeblest link in a chain reaction can halt a process, demonstrating the importance of strength in systems, whether biological or mechanical.
  • In physics, the term 'weak force' refers to one of nature's four fundamental interactions, which governs certain particle processesโ€”a metaphorical reference to 'feebleness' in nature.

Origin of 'feeblest'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'feeble' comes from the Latin 'feebilis', meaning weak or frail.
  • In Middle English, 'feeble' was often used to describe physical weakness as well as mental frailty.
  • The suffix '-est' is added in English to indicate the superlative form, which means 'the most' or 'the least,' thus 'feeblest' means the weakest.

The word feeble originates from the Latin term 'feebilis,' which refers to something that is weak or vulnerable. It made its way into Middle English from the Old French 'feible,' where it carried much the same meaning. The linguistic evolution of the term reflects a steady association with weakness, fragility, and lack of intensity. Over time, it has been employed in various contexts ranging from physical strength to emotional resilience. The use of 'feeble' and its derivatives has remained consistent, often carrying a pejorative connotation in modern English when describing arguments, performances, or justifications. Its enduring presence in the English language illustrates the cultural emphasis on strength and effectiveness.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,529 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.