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📕 rednote ID(小红书号)：3881567312

Decrepit: Definition, Usage & Common Examples (2 meaning)

Meaning 1：dilapidated or worn-out (decrepit)

decrepit 🔊

/dɪˈkrɛpɪt/

adj.

In bad condition, especially because it is very old and hasn't been taken care of.

Decrepit object illustration: a rusty, worn-out bicycle with a flat tire against a peeling wall.

dilapidated or worn-out 🔊

➕

/dɪˈlæpɪdeɪtɪd ɔːr ˈwɔːrn aʊt/

adj.

Describes an object, building, or piece of equipment that is in very poor condition, primarily due to old age and a lack of maintenance.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'decrepitus', meaning 'broken down, worn out'. De- (completely) + crepare (to crack, break).

💡 Mnemonic

Think: The decrepit house DEClined to the point of being unREPair-able ITself.

📖 Example

He finally decided to replace his decrepit bicycle, which was so rusty and wobbly that it was unsafe to ride. 🔊 He finally decided to replace his dilapidated bicycle, which was so rusty and unstable that riding it was dangerous.

🔗 Collocations

decrepit building – A structure that is old and falling apart.

decrepit machinery – Old equipment that is barely functional.

in a decrepit state – In a condition of severe disrepair.

🔄 Synonyms

dilapidated (adj.) – In a state of disrepair or ruin due to age or neglect.

ramshackle (adj.) – Poorly made or maintained; rickety.

rickety (adj.) – Weak in the joints and likely to collapse.

🚫 Antonyms

pristine (adj.) – In its original condition; unspoiled.

new (adj.) – Recently made or acquired.

robust (adj.) – Strong and healthy; vigorous.

🌱 Derivatives

decrepitude (n.) – The state of being decrepit.

📖 Cultural Story

Etymologically linked to the idea of a cracking or breaking sound (crepare). Its modern sense evolved from describing something so old it makes noise, to simply meaning very old and broken down. It is often used in journalism to describe aging public infrastructure.

Meaning 2：frail and elderly (decrepit)

decrepit 🔊

/dɪˈkrɛpɪt/

adj.

Very old and not in good condition or health; weak and unable to move easily.

Decrepit person concept: close-up of frail elderly hands resting on a wooden cane.

frail and elderly 🔊

➕

/freɪl ænd ˈɛldərli/

adj.

Describes a person, typically very old, who is weak and in poor physical health, often struggling with mobility.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example

Despite his decrepit appearance, the old man's mind was still sharp and he loved telling stories of his youth. 🔊 Despite his frail and elderly appearance, the old man's mind was still sharp and he loved telling stories of his youth.

🔗 Collocations

decrepit old man/woman – An elderly person who is very frail.

grow decrepit – To become weak and infirm with age.

🔄 Synonyms

infirm (adj.) – Physically weak, especially from old age or illness.

feeble (adj.) – Lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age.

frail (adj.) – Weak and delicate.

🚫 Antonyms

hale (adj.) – Strong and healthy.

vigorous (adj.) – Strong, healthy, and full of energy.