Weakened Meaning and Definition
Weakened
Pronunciation
/ˈwiːnkənd/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Having lost strength, energy, or vitality; weakened or enfeebled.
Examples
- The patient was weakened by the illness and needed care.
- The weakened wall could collapse at any moment.
Synonyms
- Weary
- Fatigued
- Depleted
Antonyms
- Strong
- Vital
- Healthy
Etymology
The word “weakened” comes from Old English “wacnian”, which means “to weaken” or “to enfeeble”. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “*wakiz”, which is also the source of the Modern English word “weak”.
Usage Notes
Weakened is often used to describe something that has lost its original strength or power. It can also be used to describe someone who has lost their energy or vitality due to illness or other factors.
Cultural References
Weakened is referenced in various cultural works, including literature, music, and film. For example, in Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet”, the character Hamlet describes his father’s death as a “sicken and enfeeble” process.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Weakened by the storm
Related Words or Phrases
- Weary
- Fatigued
- Depleted
- Weak
Collocations
- Weakened muscles
- Weakened immune system
Frequency of Use
Weakened is a relatively common word in modern language, particularly in medical and psychological contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Wekkened
- Weikened