First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
frail
adjective \ˈfrāl\
: having less than a normal amount of strength or force : very weak
: easily damaged or destroyed
Full Definition of FRAIL
1
: easily led into evil <frail humanity>
2
: easily broken or destroyed : fragile
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Origin of FRAIL
Middle English, from Anglo-French fraile, from Latin fragilis fragile, from frangere
Related to FRAIL
- Antonyms
- infrangible, nonbreakable, strong, sturdy, tough, unbreakable
Synonym Discussion of FRAIL
weak, feeble, frail, fragile, infirm, decrepit mean not strong enough to endure strain, pressure, or strenuous effort. weak applies to deficiency or inferiority in strength or power of any sort <felt weak after the surgery>. feeble suggests extreme weakness inviting pity or contempt <a feeble attempt to walk>. frail implies delicacy and slightness of constitution or structure <a frail teenager unable to enjoy sports>. fragile suggests frailty and brittleness unable to resist rough usage <a reclusive poet too fragile for the rigors of this world>. infirm suggests instability, unsoundness, and insecurity due to old age or crippling illness <infirm residents requiring constant care>. decrepit implies being worn-out or broken-down from long use or old age <the dowager's decrepit retainers>.
Rhymes with FRAIL
FRAILNESS Defined for Kids
frail
adjective \ˈfrāl\
Definition of FRAIL for Kids
: very delicate or weak <a frail little child>
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