Meaning & Definition of Brittle in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: Characterized by hardness and lack of flexibility; likely to break easily.

  Example Sentence: The brittle glass shattered into a million pieces.

• Definition: Having a surface that tends to crumble or splinter.

  Example Sentence: The brittle soil collapsed under the weight of the car.

• Definition: Refers to a lack of emotional resilience; easily upset or angry.

  Example Sentence: He has a brittle temperament, reacting strongly to criticism.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English 'brittel', from Old English 'brytil', related to 'break'.

Synonyms

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.

Translations

• Spanish: frágil

• French: fragile

• German: zerbrechlich

• Russian: ломкий

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.