Meaning & Definition of word "Weakness"
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Weakness
/ˈwiːknəs/
noun:
- 1. The state or quality of being weak; lack of strength, firmness, or vigor.
- Example: Her weakness for sweets often undermined her diet.
- 2. A condition or quality that renders someone or something weaker than usual.
- Example: The team's weakness in their defensive strategy cost them the match.
- 3. An insufficient quality or characteristic, especially that which detracts from one's effectiveness.
- Example: He acknowledged his weakness in mathematics and sought help.
- 4. A personal failing or lapse in character.
- Example: She knew her weakness for procrastination would lead to more stress.
Etymology
Middle English wekenesse, from Old English wæcnysse, from weak + -ness
Common Phrases and Expressions
Achilles' heel:
A weakness in spite of overall strength.
soft spot:
A particular weakness or vulnerability.
chink in one's armor:
A small weakness in someone's character or in an argument.
Related Words
strength:
The quality or state of being physically strong.
fragility:
The quality of being easily broken or damaged.
vulnerability:
The quality of being exposed to the possibility of attack or harm.
Slang Meanings of weakness
Meaning: A tendency or habit that is perceived as less than strong.
Example Sentence: Jack's weakness for gossip makes him the office informant.
Meaning: An area where someone or something is less competent.
Example Sentence: In music, his weakness is improvisation.