feeble
UK: ˈfiːbəl | US: ˈfiːbəl
adj. lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age or illness
adj. weak in character or effectiveness; inadequate
The word "feeble" originates from Old French feble (modern French faible), meaning "weak." This, in turn, derives from Latin flebilis, meaning "lamentable" or "pitiable," from flere (to weep). Over time, the meaning shifted from emotional vulnerability to physical weakness. The suffix -ble (or -ile in Latin) often forms adjectives indicating capacity or tendency. The word’s evolution reflects a transition from sorrow-related frailty to generalized weakness.
The old man's voice was so feeble that I could barely hear him.
After the illness, her movements became slow and feeble.
The government's feeble response to the crisis disappointed many.
A feeble attempt was made to repair the broken fence.
The light from the candle grew feeble as the night wore on.