Frailer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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frailer

[ˈfreɪlər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical condition

Frailer refers to a state of being physically weak or delicate. This term is often used to describe individuals who have a reduced level of strength, vitality, or resilience, often due to age or illness.

Synonyms

delicate, feebler, fragile, weaker.

Examples of usage

  • The frailer individuals in the nursing home require more assistance.
  • As he grew older, he became frailer and needed help with daily tasks.
  • The frailer branches of the tree are more susceptible to breaking in the wind.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People may perceive individuals who are frailer as more vulnerable and in need of protection.
  • The concept of frailty is often used in geriatrics to describe older adults who have decreased strength and resilience.

Literature

  • In many stories, frail characters symbolize vulnerability, drawing empathy from readers.
  • Classic literature often features frailer characters to highlight themes of survival and strength against adversity.

Cultural References

  • Frailness is often represented in art, such as sculptures and paintings that showcase delicate figures.
  • In many cultures, frailty can also symbolize wisdom, with the idea that those who have faced many hardships become more understanding.

Health and Science

  • Research indicates that frailty in older adults can be linked to increased risk of illness and loss of independence.
  • In biological terms, a frailer organism may struggle to survive in harsh environments, demonstrating the importance of strength in species survival.

Origin of 'frailer'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English term 'frail', which meant 'weak' or 'delicate'.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'fragilis', which means 'easily broken', emphasizing its connection to weakness.

The term 'frail' originates from the Latin word 'fragilis,' which means 'easily broken or shattered.' It has evolved in usage through Middle English, where it appeared as 'frail,' to describe something weak or delicate. By adding the comparative suffix '-er,' the term 'frailer' developed to indicate a greater degree of frailty. This evolution highlights the term's connection to physical and metaphorical weakness, often symbolizing vulnerability amongst individuals or objects.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,145, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.