weakened
UK: ˈwiːkənd | US: ˈwiːkənd
adj. reduced in strength, intensity, or effectiveness
v. (past tense/past participle of "weaken") made or became less strong or powerful
The word "weakened" derives from the Old English "wāc" (weak) + the verb-forming suffix "-en," which turns adjectives into verbs (e.g., "soften," "darken"). The "-ed" suffix marks the past tense or past participle. The root "weak" traces back to Proto-Germanic *waikwaz (yielding, pliant), reflecting a gradual shift from physical pliability to metaphorical lack of strength. The suffix "-en" (from Old English "-nian") systematically transforms adjectives into verbs, while "-ed" solidifies the action as completed.
The storm weakened as it moved inland.
His immune system was weakened by the illness.
The bridge's structure was dangerously weakened after the flood.
Her resolve never weakened despite the challenges.
The team's performance weakened in the second half.