Meaning & Definition of word "Infirm"
to
Infirm
/ɪnˈfɜːrm/
noun:
- 1. A person who is weak or ill, especially due to age.
- Example: The infirm were given special care at the nursing home.
adjective:
- 1. Not physically or mentally strong, especially through age or illness.
- Example: The infirm man struggled to climb the stairs without assistance.
- 2. Weak; lacking firmness of character or purpose.
- Example: His infirm resolve led him to back down from the challenge.
Etymology
Middle English 'inferm', from Latin 'infirmus' meaning 'weak, weak-minded, ill'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
infirmity of old age:
A condition of being weak or ill due to advanced age.
infirm health:
A state of poor physical condition.
Related Words
infirmity:
A physical weakness or ailment.
debilitate:
To make someone weak or infirm.
Slang Meanings of infirm
Meaning: Old-timer
Example Sentence: He moves like an old-timer since he’s so infirm.
Meaning: Gimpy
Example Sentence: After the accident, he felt gimpy and infirm.