Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition


Weakness

Weak′ness

,
Noun.
1.
The quality or state of being weak; want of strength or firmness; lack of vigor; want of resolution or of moral strength; feebleness.
2.
That which is a mark of lack of strength or resolution; a fault; a defect.
Many take pleasure in spreading abroad the
weakness
of an exalted character.
Spectator.
Syn. – Feebleness; debility; languor; imbecility; infirmness; infirmity; decrepitude; frailty; faintness.

Webster 1828 Edition


Weakness

WEAKNESS

,
Noun.
1.
Want of physical strength; want of force or vigor; feebleness; as the weakness of a child; the weakness of an invalid; the weakness of a wall or bridge, or of thread or cordage.
2.
Want of sprightliness.
Soft, without weakness; without glaring, gay.
3.
Want of steadiness.
By such a review, we shall discern and strengthen our weaknesses.
4.
Infirmity; unhealthiness; as weakness of constitution.
5.
Want of moral force or effect upon the mind; as the weakness of evidence; the weakness of arguments.
6.
Want of judgment; feebleness of mind; foolishness.
All wickedness is weakness.
7.
Defect; failing; fault; with a plural.
Many take pleasure in spreading abroad the weaknesses of an exalted character.

Definition 2024


weakness

weakness

English

Noun

weakness (countable and uncountable, plural weaknesses)

  1. (uncountable) The condition of being weak.
    In a small number of horses, muscle weakness may progress to paralysis.
  2. (countable) An inadequate quality; fault
    • 1963, Margery Allingham, chapter 20, in The China Governess:
      The story struck the depressingly familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen. No one queried it. It was in the classic pattern of human weakness, mean and embarrassing and sad.
    • 2013 January 22, Phil McNulty, Aston Villa 2-1 Bradford (3-4)”, in BBC:
      Bradford had preyed on Villa's inability to defend set pieces, corners in particular, in their first-leg win and took advantage of the weakness again as Hanson equalised to restore their two-goal aggregate lead.
    His inability to speak in front of an audience was his weakness.
  3. (countable) A special fondness or desire.
    She is an athlete who has a weakness for chocolate.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Translations

External links

  • weakness in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913
  • weakness in The Century Dictionary, The Century Co., New York, 1911