Infirm

/ɪnˈfɜːrm/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who is weak or ill, especially due to age.
The infirm were given special care at the nursing home.
adjective
Not physically or mentally strong, especially through age or illness.
The infirm man struggled to climb the stairs without assistance.
Weak; lacking firmness of character or purpose.
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

Old-timer
He moves like an old-timer since he’s so infirm.
Gimpy
After the accident, he felt gimpy and infirm.