Weakling
/ˈwiːklɪŋ/
Meaning & Definition
noun
a person or animal considered to be physically weak or lacking in strength.
He was called a weakling for not being able to lift the heavy weights.
a person who is timid or lacking in courage.
She felt like a weakling for not standing up to her bullies.
a person who is ineffectual or unable to assert themselves.
In his eyes, anyone who couldn't fight for their rights was just a weakling.
Etymology
From Middle English 'wikeling', diminutive of 'wik', meaning weak.
Common Phrases and Expressions
monday morning weakling
A person who feels weak or incapable due to the start of the work week.
Related Words
weak
Lacking in strength or physical power.
feeble
Lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age or illness.
coward
A person who lacks the courage to do or endure dangerous or unpleasant things.
Slang Meanings
A person who avoids confrontation.
Stop being such a weakling and just say what you mean.
Someone overly sensitive or fragile.
He's acting like a weakling because he can't handle criticism.