Frail
Adjective
Definition: (of a person) weak and delicate
Definition: easily broken or damaged; fragile
Synonyms: Weak, Delicate, Feeble, Fragile
Antonyms: Strong, Robust, Sturdy
Examples:
- The old woman appeared frail as she walked with the help of a cane.
- The delicate glassware was too frail to withstand a fall.
Mnemonics:
- Think of someone frail as someone who is physically weak and delicate, like fine china.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English 'frele', from Old French 'frele', of Germanic origin; related to Old English 'frǣle' meaning 'in danger, exposed to risk'.
Historical Usage:The word has been used since Middle English and has maintained a similar meaning throughout history.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Frailty, thy name is woman."
Explanation:This phrase, from Shakespeare's play Hamlet, reflects on the perceived weakness and vulnerability of women.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Associating "frail" solely with physical weakness.
Explanation:While frail can refer to physical weakness, it can also encompass fragility and vulnerability in a broader sense, not limited to just people.