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.