Weakener Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ป
weakener
[หwiหkษnษr ]
Definition
general usage
A weakener is a substance, factor, or agent that reduces strength or effectiveness. It can refer to anything that diminishes the power or efficiency of something. In a more specific context, it may be used in engineering or manufacturing settings where certain materials are added to reduce the tensile strength of a composite material. Additionally, it can refer to psychological or emotional influences that reduce someone's confidence or resilience.
Synonyms
attenuator, diluter, diminisher, reducer.
Examples of usage
- The addition of water acted as a weakener in the cement mix.
- His doubt served as a weakener to her resolve.
- The weakener in the chemical formula was necessary for the desired reaction.
Translations
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Origin of 'weakener'
The term 'weakener' is derived from the verb 'weaken,' which comes from the Old English 'wรฆcnian,' meaning 'to become weak.' This Old English term is related to the Proto-Germanic *wakanฤ , which refers to being weak, feeble, or lacking strength. The suffix '-er' is commonly used in English to indicate an agent or doer of an action. Therefore, 'weakener' literally translates to 'one who weakens.' The concept has evolved to encompass various fields, including chemistry, psychology, and materials science, where agents or factors that reduce strength are often crucial in processes or analyses.