Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/freɪl/

Definitions

• 1. Weak and delicate, especially in terms of health or physical strength.
• 2. Easily damaged, broken, or harmed due to fragility.
• 3. Lacking in substance or strength, fragile in nature.

Usage Examples

• "The frail old man had trouble walking on his own."
• "Her frail health made it difficult for her to work long hours."
• "The frail structure of the building could not withstand the earthquake."

Etymology

The word "frail" comes from Middle English "frail," which derives from Old French "fragil," from Latin "fragilis," meaning "easily broken" or "delicate." The root of the word is "frag-" meaning "breakable," which is also seen in words like "fragile."

Synonyms

• Fragile
• Delicate
• Weak
• Feeble
• Infirm
• Unstable

Antonyms

• Strong
• Sturdy
• Robust
• Durable
• Healthy

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "frail" is typically pronounced in the same way across various English-speaking regions, with slight variations in intonation. In British English, it may sound more clipped, while in American English, the pronunciation is softer and more prolonged.

Historical Usage

The term "frail" has been in use since the 14th century, primarily used to describe physical weakness or delicacy. Over time, it extended to refer to anything fragile or easily broken. It has often been applied in the medical field to describe the weakened state of elderly or ill individuals.

Cultural Nuances

The word "frail" can carry a negative connotation when describing a person, implying that they are physically or mentally weak. However, in some contexts, it may evoke sympathy or tenderness, especially when used to describe an elderly person or someone who has faced great challenges.

More Information

Frailness can be related to both physical and mental conditions. While physical frailty is often associated with aging, illness, or injury, mental frailty refers to an individual's vulnerability to stress, anxiety, or emotional breakdowns. In both cases, frailty can be seen as a sign of weakness, but it can also symbolize the delicate nature of life itself. The term has evolved over time, broadening its meaning to include various forms of fragility beyond just physical aspects.