Weakling: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used to describe someone who is physically weak or frail. It's often used to talk about someone's physical abilities, and while it can be derogatory, it is less intense than some of the other options.

• He was considered a weakling among his peers because he couldn't lift heavy weights.
• Don't be such a weakling, you have to keep trying.

This word is used to describe someone who lacks physical strength or courage. It's often used in a more casual or conversational context, sometimes humorously, but it can be seen as derogatory.

• Don't be such a wimp, you can handle this.
• He was often called a wimp for not participating in rough sports.

This term describes someone who is timid, unassertive, or lacks strong character. It often has a slightly old-fashioned feeling and is generally used in a negative way.

• He was such a milquetoast that he couldn't even stand up for himself.
• The character in the book was a milquetoast, always yielding to others.

This word is used for someone who is easily influenced, manipulated, or dominated. It focuses more on someone's inability to resist others rather than physical weakness.

• The new manager turned out to be a pushover, and employees took advantage of him.
• She is no pushover and stands her ground when making decisions.

Used to describe someone physically or mentally weak, typically in an unkind or critical manner.

• He was always the weakling in the group, unable to lift heavy weights
• The bullies picked on him, calling him a weakling

Refers to a person who is easily taken advantage of, often not standing up for themselves. This term has a negative connotation.

• She is a doormat in her relationships, always letting others dictate the terms
• He needs to stop being a doormat and start asserting himself

Implies that someone is being controlled or manipulated by another person, often used in a political or social context. This term has a negative connotation.

• The politician was criticized for being a puppet of corporate interests
• She felt like a puppet, with her boss pulling all the strings

Describes someone who tends to follow others' lead, lacking initiative or leadership qualities. The term can be neutral but sometimes implies a lack of individuality.

• He has always been a follower, preferring to go along with what his friends decide
• As a follower, she rarely expressed her own opinions