susceptibility
UK: səˌsɛptɪˈbɪlɪti | US: səˌsɛptəˈbɪləti
n. the state of being easily affected, influenced, or harmed by something
n. (biology) the degree to which an organism is vulnerable to a disease or external factor
The word traces back to Latin suscipere ("to take up"), reflecting the idea of "receiving" or "being under the influence of." Over time, susceptibility evolved in English (16th century) to describe vulnerability—whether to emotions, diseases, or external forces—retaining the core notion of "being open to receiving." The suffix -ibility systematizes the abstract noun form, aligning with similar terms like flexibility or sensibility.
Children have a higher susceptibility to infections due to developing immune systems.
Her susceptibility to peer pressure led her to make poor decisions.
The study measured the susceptibility of different materials to corrosion.
Genetic factors can influence susceptibility to certain chronic diseases.
His susceptibility to flattery made him an easy target for manipulation.