Assailable

Adjective

Definition: Not defended or capable of being defended.

Synonyms: Vulnerable, Undefended

Antonyms: Defended, Secure

Examples:

The castle was assailable due to its weak fortifications.
The network's security system was easily assailable by hackers.

Mnemonics:

Think of the word "assail" meaning to attack, and how something that is assailable is therefore easily attacked or not defended.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English from Old French 'assaillable', from medieval Latin 'assailabilis', from Latin 'assail', meaning 'to assault' or 'to attack'.

Historical Usage:

The term 'assailable' has been used in English since around the 15th century to describe something that is vulnerable or not defended.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Assailable position"

Explanation:

Refers to a vulnerable or weak position that can be easily attacked or taken advantage of by an opponent.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'assailable' with 'unassailable'.

Explanation:

'Assailable' means vulnerable or not defended, while 'unassailable' means not able to be attacked or disputed. These are opposite meanings, so it's important to use the correct term in context.