Brittle

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈbrɪtəl/

Definitions

• Describing a material or object that is hard but easily broken, snapped, or cracked.
• Referring to a person, attitude, or behavior that is easily damaged or hurt, often used metaphorically.
• In physics or chemistry, describing a substance that lacks the ability to withstand stress without breaking.

Usage Examples

• "The brittle glass shattered into pieces when it fell on the floor."
• "Her brittle personality made it hard for her to cope with criticism."
• "The brittle branches snapped under the weight of the heavy snow."

Etymology

The word "brittle" comes from the Middle English word "brytlen," meaning to break or fracture, which is related to the Old English "bryttan" (to break). It is rooted in the Germanic language family, reflecting an ancient understanding of fragility and breaking.

Synonyms

• Fragile
• Breakable
• Delicate
• Crumbly
• Flaky

Antonyms

• Durable
• Resilient
• Flexible
• Tough
• Sturdy

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "brittle" may vary slightly in different English-speaking regions. In American English, it is often pronounced more quickly, while in British English, it may be slightly more elongated, with a softer "t" sound. Some regional accents in the UK might emphasize the "i" sound more strongly, giving it a sharper sound compared to American variants.

Historical Usage

The term "brittle" has been used since the 13th century, originating from Old English. It was commonly applied to materials such as stone or glass that would break easily. Over time, the term expanded beyond its literal meaning to describe emotional or social fragility, often used in literature to convey a sense of vulnerability or weakness in character or temperament.

Cultural Nuances

The word "brittle" carries with it a range of connotations depending on context. In materials science, it refers specifically to physical properties, while in social contexts, it can describe a person who is emotionally or mentally fragile. This dual usage highlights the flexibility of language in conveying different types of fragility, both physical and emotional. In some cultures, the concept of brittleness may be used to symbolize a person's sensitivity or inability to withstand hardship.

More Information

"Brittle" is often used in both scientific and everyday language to describe things that break easily. Materials that are brittle tend to have a low tolerance for stress and can shatter or crack under pressure. This term is commonly applied to various substances such as glass, ceramics, and some metals. In terms of behavior, the adjective "brittle" describes someone or something that is easily upset or emotionally affected. The evolution of this term reflects society's broader understanding of fragility, not just in physical matter, but also in personal resilience and mental toughness.