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frailty
/ˈfreɪl.ti/
weakness or fragility
The frailty of the old man made it difficult for him to walk without assistance.
The man's physical weakness required him to use a cane.
formal
The condition of being weak and delicate
The doctor noted the patient's frailty during the examination.
The doctor observed the patient's physical weakness.
In her old age, she showed increasing signs of frailty.
As she grew older, her body became more fragile.
Often used to describe physical or emotional weakness, especially in older adults or during illness.
literary
A weakness or failing in someone's character
Human frailty is what makes us prone to mistakes.
Our human weaknesses lead us to make errors.
Common in literary and philosophical contexts to describe moral or psychological weaknesses.
Collocations
frailty of old agethe weakness that comes with agingsigns of frailtyindications of weakness or vulnerabilityfrailty in the elderlyphysical weakness common in older people
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'frailty'
While 'frailty' is precise, it can sound overly formal or clinical. Consider alternatives like 'weakness' or 'fragility' in casual conversation.
Gold Rule
Use 'frailty' for permanent or serious conditions
Frailty suggests a deep-seated weakness, not a temporary state. For example, say 'I'm tired' instead of 'I'm frail' after a long day.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'frailite', from Old French 'frailete', from Latin 'fragilitas' (fragility), from 'fragilis' (fragile). Related to 'fragile' and 'fraction'.
Usage Notes
Frailty is often used in medical, psychological, and literary contexts. It implies a state of being weak or easily broken, whether physically, emotionally, or morally. Avoid using it to describe temporary tiredness or minor fatigue.
Word Breakdown
frail
weak or delicate
root-ty
state or quality of
suffixEnglish Dictionary