frail
UK: freɪl | US: freɪl
adj. physically weak or delicate
adj. easily broken or damaged; fragile
adj. morally or spiritually vulnerable
The word "frail" traces back to Latin fragilis, meaning "easily broken." Over time, it evolved through Old French fraile before entering Middle English as "frail." The morpheme fra- preserves the core idea of fragility, while -il adapts it into an adjective. The word’s dual sense—physical and moral weakness—reflects its historical association with vulnerability in both material and human contexts.
The old woman’s frail hands trembled as she held the teacup.
The bridge was too frail to support heavy vehicles.
His resolve grew frail under constant pressure.
The artist used frail materials like paper and thread in her sculptures.
Despite her frail appearance, she possessed remarkable inner strength.