Labile Meaning and Definition
Labile
Pronunciation
/ˈleɪbaɪl/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Labile refers to something that is unstable, prone to change, or easily influenced. In chemistry, it describes a compound that is highly reactive or unstable. In psychology, it refers to a person’s emotional state that is easily influenced or changed.
Examples
1. “The labile nature of the chemical compound made it difficult to handle.”
2. “Her labile emotions made it challenging for her to make decisions.”
Synonyms
1. Unstable
2. Volatile
3. Mercurial
Antonyms
1. Stable
2. Constant
3. Predictable
Additional Information
Labile is a term that is used in various fields, including chemistry, psychology, and medicine. In chemistry, labile compounds are often used as catalysts or reactants in chemical reactions. In psychology, labile emotions can be a sign of underlying mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression. In medicine, labile blood pressure can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
Labile is also used to describe something that is easily influenced or changed by external factors. For example, a labile market is one that is highly sensitive to changes in supply and demand. A labile person is someone who is easily influenced by their emotions or surroundings.
Overall, labile is a term that is used to describe something that is unstable, prone to change, or easily influenced. It is a useful term to know in a variety of contexts, from chemistry to psychology to medicine.
Etymology
The word “labile” comes from the Latin word “labilis,” which means “liable to slip or fall.” It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe something that is unstable or prone to change.
Usage Notes
Labile is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as in scientific or medical writing. However, it can also be used in informal contexts, such as in conversation or in writing.
When using the word “labile,” it is often used to describe a condition or state that is temporary or unstable. For example, “The patient’s labile blood pressure made it difficult to diagnose the underlying condition.”
Cultural References
Labile is a term that is used in various cultural contexts, including literature, music, and film. For example, the term “labile” is used in the novel “The Labile of Me” by author Sarah Manguso to describe the protagonist’s emotional state.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Labile emotions” – This phrase is used to describe someone who is easily influenced by their emotions.
2. “Labile market” – This phrase is used to describe a market that is highly sensitive to changes in supply and demand.
Collocations
1. Labile emotions
2. Labile market
3. Labile blood pressure
Frequency of Use
Labile is a relatively uncommon word in modern language, but it is still used in various contexts, including scientific and medical writing.
Common Misspellings
1. Labil
2. Labile
3. Labal