foible
UK: ˈfɔɪb(ə)l | US: ˈfɔɪb(ə)l
n. a minor weakness or eccentricity in someone's character
n. (fencing) the weaker part of a sword blade, from the middle to the tip
foible = foil<weak> + ble<adjective suffix>
- foil (from Old French foible, meaning "weak," derived from Latin flebilis "lamentable, feeble")
- ble (a suffix forming adjectives, often indicating capability or tendency)
Etymology Origin:
The word foible originated in the 17th century from French foible, meaning "weak." It initially referred to the weaker part of a sword blade, later metaphorically extending to human character flaws. The Latin root flebilis ("lamentable") ties to vulnerability, reinforcing the concept of minor, forgivable shortcomings.
His tendency to procrastinate is his most noticeable foible.
She laughed off her foible of always misplacing her keys.
In fencing, skilled fighters exploit their opponent's foible.
Despite his foibles, he was widely admired for his generosity.
The novel’s protagonist is endearing because of his relatable foibles.