Frangible: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derives from the Latin word 'frangere', meaning 'to break'.
• The term combines the prefix 'frang-' with the suffix '-able', indicating it can be broken.
• First used in English in the late 19th century, showcasing its precise descriptive use.

Science

• Certain frangible materials are often used in products designed to intentionally break, like safety glass.
• In physics, frangible materials are studied for their properties when subjected to stress.
• Frangible ammunition is designed to disintegrate upon impact, reducing the risk of ricochet.

Literature

• Frangible characters in literature often symbolize vulnerability or the fragility of life.
• Authors use frangible elements to create tension or to highlight a character's delicate state of mind.
• The concept of frangibility appears in poetry, often used to evoke emotions related to loss.

Pop Culture

• In movies, frangible objects often serve as plot devices, where a shattered glass or breakable item signifies a turning point.
• The depiction of frangible items in artwork can symbolize the beauty in vulnerability, resonating with audiences.
• Frangible concepts are often explored in modern music as metaphors for emotional fragility.

Psychology

• The idea of emotional frangibility explores how certain people are more sensitive to stress and criticism.
• Frangible relationships often highlight the delicacy in human connections and the ease with which they can be damaged.
• Psychological studies suggest that understanding one’s own frangibility can lead to greater empathy towards others.

Ranking #35,839, 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.

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