What does vulnerable mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈvʌlnərəbl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically, emotionally, or financially. Vulnerable individuals or situations are those that are susceptible to exploitation or injury.

Examples

• The vulnerable population of the city was hit hard by the economic downturn.
• The company’s financial situation made it vulnerable to takeover.

Synonyms

• Exposed
• Risk-prone

Antonyms

• Secure
• Protected
• Invulnerable

Additional Information

The term “vulnerable” is often used in various contexts, including social sciences, psychology, economics, and healthcare. It is essential to understand the nuances of vulnerability in different situations to develop effective strategies for protection and support. In social sciences, vulnerability refers to the susceptibility of individuals or groups to exploitation, marginalization, or violence. In psychology, vulnerability is a critical aspect of emotional and mental health, as it can affect an individual’s ability to cope with stress and trauma. In economics, vulnerability refers to the exposure of businesses or economies to market fluctuations, competition, or other external factors. In healthcare, vulnerability is a crucial consideration in patient care, as it can affect an individual’s ability to receive adequate treatment and support.

In recent years, the concept of vulnerability has gained significant attention in the context of climate change, as it highlights the disproportionate impact of environmental disasters on vulnerable populations. Understanding vulnerability is essential for developing targeted interventions and policies to mitigate the effects of climate change and promote sustainable development.

The term “vulnerable” has also been used in the context of cybersecurity, where it refers to the susceptibility of computer systems or networks to hacking or other forms of cyber attacks. In this context, vulnerability is often used to describe the weaknesses in software or hardware that can be exploited by malicious actors.

Eymology

The word “vulnerable” comes from the Latin “vulnerare,” meaning “to wound,” and the suffix “-able,” which forms an adjective indicating possibility or capability. The term has been used in the English language since the 15th century, with its primary meaning relating to physical exposure to harm or attack. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass emotional, financial, and other forms of vulnerability.

Usage Notes

When using the term “vulnerable,” it is essential to consider the context and the specific type of vulnerability being referred to. In general, the term is used to describe situations or individuals that are exposed to some form of risk or harm. However, it is crucial to avoid using the term in a way that perpetuates negative stereotypes or stigma, particularly in the context of marginalized or disadvantaged groups.

Cultural References

The concept of vulnerability has been explored in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, the novel “The Vulnerable” by Paula Hawkins explores the theme of vulnerability in the context of relationships and trauma. The film “The Pursuit of Happyness” features a protagonist who is vulnerable to financial hardship and homelessness. The song “Vulnerable” by The 1975 explores the theme of emotional vulnerability in relationships.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“To be at a vulnerable stage” refers to a point in development or a situation where an individual or group is particularly susceptible to harm or exploitation. “To leave someone vulnerable” means to expose them to risk or danger, often unintentionally.

Related Words or Phrases

Words or phrases that are closely related to “vulnerable” include “susceptible,” “exposed,” “at risk,” and “in danger.”

Collocations

Common collocations with the term “vulnerable” include “vulnerable population,” “vulnerable individuals,” and “vulnerable situation.”

Frequency of Use

The term “vulnerable” is commonly used in modern language, particularly in the context of social sciences, psychology, and healthcare. According to the Corpus of Contemporary American English, the term is used approximately 1.5 times per million words.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of the term “vulnerable” include “vulnerible,” “vulneral,” and “vulnurable.”