Meaning & Definition of word "Brittle"
to
Brittle
/ˈbrɪtəl/
adjective:
- 1. Easily broken or shattered; fragile.
- Example: The old vase was so brittle that it shattered at the slightest touch.
- 2. Not able to withstand stress or pressure; tending to break under strain.
- Example: The brittle metal used in the construction of the toy broke when dropped.
- 3. Characterized by a lack of resilience; inflexible.
- Example: The brittle nature of the policies made it difficult to adapt to new challenges.
- 4. Having a hard but easily breakable texture.
- Example: The brittle texture of the cookie made it difficult to dip into the milk.
- 5. Referring to a material that does not deform appreciably before breaking.
- Example: Glass is a brittle substance that tends to fracture rather than bend.
Etymology
Middle English 'brittel', from Old English 'brytil', related to 'break'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
brittle peace:
A fragile state of peace that could easily break down.
brittle patience:
Having little tolerance and easily losing one’s temper.
Related Words
fragility:
The quality of being easily broken or damaged.
resilience:
The ability to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
Slang Meanings of brittle
Meaning: Emotionally unstable or easily irritated.
Example Sentence: She's been so brittle lately, any little thing sets her off.
Meaning: Prone to breaking under pressure.
Example Sentence: Playing with that brittle egomaniac is a recipe for disaster.