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Frailty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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frailty

[หˆfreษชlti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in health

The condition of being weak and delicate.

Synonyms

delicateness, fragility, weakness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
frailty

Used to describe both physical and moral weakness, often referring to a person's vulnerability or susceptibility to infirmity or corruption.

  • His frailty made it difficult for him to walk long distances.
  • The novel explores the frailty of human nature.
weakness

A general term that can indicate lack of strength, power, or support, often broadly applicable in both physical and metaphorical senses.

  • His weakness after the illness was evident in his slow recovery.
  • Her weakness for chocolate often led her to indulge.
fragility

Highlights the breakable or damageable quality of an object or entity, often implying a need for careful handling.

  • The fragility of the glass vase required careful handling.
  • Her emotional fragility made her avoid stressful situations.
delicateness

Refers to the fine or intricate quality of something, often used to describe texture, flavor, or appearance.

  • The delicateness of the lace added a touch of elegance to the dress.
  • The chef is known for the delicateness of his desserts.

Examples of usage

  • She was suffering from frailty after a long illness.
  • The frailty of old age made it difficult for her to walk long distances.
Context #2 | Noun

in character

Moral weakness or flaw.

Synonyms

flaw, frailness, weakness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
frailty

Used to describe general physical weakness, especially due to age or illness. It can also describe weakness in character or morals.

  • The elderly man's frailty made it difficult for him to walk without assistance.
  • Her frailty of spirit gave way under the pressure of the intense situation.
weakness

A broad term used to describe a lack of strength in any contextโ€”physical, mental, or emotional. It can also refer to a particular vulnerability or failing.

  • His weakness for sweets makes it hard for him to maintain a healthy diet.
  • She showed no weakness during the intense debate.
flaw

Used to describe a defect or imperfection in an object or a character trait. This word often has a negative connotation.

  • The vase had a flaw that made it less valuable.
  • His biggest flaw was his inability to forgive.
frailness

This word is similar to 'frailty' and is often used to describe physical weakness or delicacy, usually in reference to health or old age.

  • The frailness of her body was apparent after years of illness.
  • Despite his frailness, he remained mentally sharp.

Examples of usage

  • His frailty of character led him to make unethical decisions.
  • The politician's frailty was exposed when he was caught lying to the public.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Frailty often represents not just physical weakness but emotional vulnerability, showing how people can feel fragile inside.
  • Studies suggest that acknowledging one's frailty can enhance emotional resilience and lead to greater strength over time.

Health

  • In medicine, frailty is a syndrome often observed in the elderly, characterized by decreased strength, endurance, and reduced physiological function.
  • Health professionals use measures of frailty to assess older adults, focusing on managing their health proactively.

Literature

  • Frailty is a common theme in literature, often symbolizing the human condition and our limitations, as seen in many classic works.
  • Shakespeare famously wrote, 'Frailty, thy name is woman,' reflecting perceptions of vulnerability in society.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of frailty has been explored in various films and music, highlighting both physical and emotional aspects of being weak or delicate.
  • Popular TV shows often depict characters overcoming their frailty, showcasing resilience and strength in facing life's challenges.

Origin of 'frailty'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'fragilis', meaning 'easily broken', reflecting its core meaning.
  • In Old French, the word 'fraile' appeared, which also related to weakness and delicacy.

The word 'frailty' originated from the Old French word 'frelete', which meant 'weakness' or 'feebleness'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe physical weakness as well as moral weakness. Over time, 'frailty' has become a commonly used term to depict vulnerability and fragility in various aspects of life.

See also: frail, frailness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,412, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.