infirm

/in'fə:m/
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Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Physically weak, especially from age or illness: Describes a state of lacking physical strength, vitality, or robustness, often due to old age or poor health.
    • Lacking firmness of will, character, or purpose; irresolute: Describes a state of moral or mental weakness, indicating indecisiveness or a lack of determination.
Usage and Examples

  • Describing physical weakness:

    • The infirm patient needed assistance to walk.
    • Care for the elderly and infirm is a community responsibility.

  • Describing weakness of will or purpose:

    • He was infirm of purpose, constantly changing his mind.
    • An infirm resolve is easily swayed by opposition.
Advanced Usage
  • "The infirm" (noun phrase, plural): Used as a collective term to refer to people who are weak or ill.
    • The hospital wing was dedicated to caring for the infirm.
Variants and Related Words
  • Infirmity (noun): The state of being infirm; a physical or mental weakness.
    • Old age is often accompanied by various infirmities.
  • Infirmary (noun): A place for the care of the infirm or sick; a hospital or sickbay.
Synonyms
  • Feeble: Lacking physical strength, often implying pitiable weakness.
  • Debilitated: Weakened, especially as a result of illness.
  • Frail: Fragile and weak, often used for the elderly.
  • Irresolute: Showing or feeling hesitancy; not firm in purpose (for the non-physical sense).
Antonyms
  • Strong: Possessing physical power.
  • Healthy: In good health.
  • Resolute: Admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering (for the non-physical sense).
Notes on Meaning

The word infirm primarily conveys a state of weakness. Its first and most common meaning relates to the body. Its second meaning, concerning will or purpose, is more literary and less frequent in everyday modern usage, often found in classic texts or formal critique.

Adjective
  1. lacking firmness of will or character or purpose; give me the daggers" - Shakespeare
    • infirm of purpose
  2. lacking bodily or muscular strength or vitality
    • a feeble old woman
    • her body looked sapless

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