Definition

Noun: 1. The quality of lacking intensity, strength, or substance; weakness. This refers to a state of being faint, slight, or lacking in power, force, or vigor. 2. The state of being weak in health or physical condition, often due to age or illness. This describes a condition of bodily fragility or lack of physical strength.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to lack of intensity or substance:
  • The feebleness of the argument was apparent to everyone in the debate.
  • He criticized the report for its intellectual feebleness and lack of supporting data.
• Referring to physical weakness:
  • The old dog's feebleness made it difficult for him to climb the stairs.
  • After the long illness, she was overcome by a general sense of feebleness.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "Feebleness" often carries a connotation of being inadequate, ineffective, or pitiable. It is more formal than the simpler word "weakness."
• It can describe abstract qualities (like arguments, light, or efforts) as well as physical states.
• "Feebleness of mind" is a phrase used to describe a lack of mental acuity or strength.

Variants and Related Words

• Feeble (adjective): Weak, lacking strength.
• Feebly (adverb): In a weak or faint manner.

Synonyms

• Weakness: The state of being weak. (A more general synonym.)
• Fragility: The quality of being easily broken or damaged.
• Faintness: Barely perceptible; lacking strength.
• Debility: Physical weakness, especially as a result of illness.
• Frailty: The condition of being weak and delicate.

Antonyms

• Strength
• Robustness
• Vigor
• Potency
• Intensity

Idioms and Common Phrases

• "The feebleness of old age": A common phrase describing the physical decline associated with advanced age.
  • He was frustrated by the feebleness of old age that kept him from his garden.
• "Moral feebleness": Used to describe a lack of moral strength or conviction.
  • The politician was accused of moral feebleness for failing to take a stand.

Noun

1. the quality of lacking intensity or substance
   • a shrill yet sweet tenuity of voice- Nathaniel Hawthorne
2. the state of being weak in health or body (especially from old age)