Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition


Weak-kneed

Weak′-kneedˊ

,
Adj.
Having weak knees; hence, easily yielding; wanting resolution.
H. James.

Definition 2024


weak-kneed

weak-kneed

English

Alternative forms

Adjective

weak-kneed (comparative more weak-kneed, superlative most weak-kneed)

  1. (figuratively) Lacking will power or strength of character; timid.
    • 1903, Jack London, The People of the Abyss, ch. 5:
      It is incontrovertible that the children grow up into rotten adults, without virility or stamina, a weak-kneed, narrow-chested, listless breed, that crumples up and goes down in the brute struggle for life.
  2. (literally) Used other than as an idiom: see weak, kneed.

Translations