Infirmity: Definition, Usage & Synonyms Explained

Meaning 1：weakness or frailty (infirmity)

infirmity 🔊

/ɪnˈfɜːrməti/

The state of being weak or ill, especially over a long time or because of old age.

Infirmity illustrated by an elderly person using a walking stick on an autumn path.

weakness or frailty 🔊

➕

/ˈwiːknəs ɔːr ˈfreɪlti/

This refers to the condition of being physically weak, ill, or lacking in strength, often due to long-term illness or advanced age.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'in-' (not) + 'firmus' (strong, firm). Literally 'not strong'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think: A person who is IN a state of being unFIRM (weak) has an INFIRMITY.

📖 Example

His grandfather's infirmity means he now needs help with simple tasks like climbing stairs. 🔊 The physical weakness of his grandfather now requires assistance for basic activities such as going up stairs.

🔗 Collocations

physical infirmity – weakness related to the body

old age infirmity – frailty associated with elderly years

succumb to infirmity – to become helpless due to weakness

🔄 Synonyms

frailty (n.) – The condition of being weak and delicate, especially in health.

debility (n.) – Physical weakness, especially as a result of illness.

feebleness (n.) – The state of lacking strength or vigor.

🚫 Antonyms

strength (n.) – The quality or state of being physically strong.

vigor (n.) – Physical strength and good health.

robustness (n.) – The condition of being strong and healthy; hardiness.

🌱 Derivatives

infirm (adj.) – Not physically or mentally strong, especially through age or illness.

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Latin 'infirmitas'. Historically used in medical and legal contexts to describe a state of physical or mental incapacity. Today, it frequently appears in discussions about aging, healthcare, and disability rights.