Vulnerable

/ˈvʌlnərəbəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

capable of or likely to be exposed to the threat of harm or injury.

The coastal community is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels.

open to moral attack, criticism, or temptation.

She felt vulnerable sharing her personal stories with the group.

susceptible to physical injury or emotional harm.

The injured animal was left vulnerable in the wild without protection.

having little or no resistance to disease, injury, or attack.

Children can be vulnerable to infections if their vaccinations are not up to date.

From Latin vulnerabilis, from vulnerare 'to wound'.

vulnerable population

Groups that are at greater risk of harm due to socioeconomic factors.

vulnerable position

A state of being in a risky or exposed situation.

vulnerable state

A condition of being open to harm or danger.

vulnerability

The quality of being vulnerable.

vulnerably

In a manner that exposes one to harm.

invulnerable

Incapable of being wounded or hurt.