Meaning & Definition of word "Brittle"

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.