Weaken: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when making something less strong or less intense, often in a broad sense.

• The illness has weakened her immune system.
• The political turmoil has weakened the economy.

Used when something becomes smaller or less important; often gradual and perceptible.

• Her love for the hobby started to diminish over time.
• The new policy diminished employee morale.

Used to make something smaller or less severe, often in terms of impact or intensity.

• He took an aspirin to lessen the pain.
• They installed soundproof walls to lessen the noise.

Often used when talking about numbers, quantities, or rates going down.

• The company saw a decrease in profits this quarter.
• Experts predict a decrease in crime rates.

Used for making something less hard, more gentle, or less harsh, both literally and figuratively.

• She used conditioner to soften her hair.
• He tried to soften his criticism to avoid offending her.

Often used in a negative sense to describe weakening something or someone gradually and secretly.

• His actions were intended to undermine her authority.
• The scandal really undermined public trust in the government.