enfeeble - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
enfeeble Word Meanings
- to make weak or feeble
- to deprive of strength or vigor
- to weaken in force or effect
enfeeble Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
enfeeble Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈfiːbəl/
US
/ɪnˈfibəl/
enfeeble Word Etymology
The word 'enfeeble' is composed of the prefix 'en-' meaning 'to cause to be' and the root 'feeble' meaning 'weak'. It comes from Latin 'flebilis' (weak) through Old French 'feeble' to English. Imagine a once vibrant plant now wilting due to lack of sunlight, symbolizing the process of becoming weak.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Enfeeble means to make someone or something weak or feeble, to deprive of strength or vigor, or to weaken in force or effect. It suggests an external cause producing a gradual loss of power, not just a temporary tiredness. The word is often formal or literary, and it can describe bodies, institutions, or even ideas being diminished by illness, stress, or adverse conditions. In use, be enfeebled by is common when the subject is affected by something outside its control. Learners should note that enfeeble carries a stronger sense than simply weaken, and it is less common in everyday speech than weaken or diminish.
Usage Reminders
- Use enfeeble for a strong, external cause of weakness, not for simple tiredness.
- It often appears in formal writing or literature.
- It can describe physical, mental, or institutional decline.
- Watch for the phrase be enfeebled by.
- Avoid using enfeeble to imply instant weakness; it emphasizes gradual impact.
Common Misconceptions
- It is merely a stronger synonym of weaken; it actually emphasizes external, lasting decline.
- It can only describe physical strength, not mental or institutional aspects.
- It is common in everyday speech; you will hear it often in casual conversation.
- It means instant fatigue or a temporary dip in energy.
- It can only refer to people, not things like organizations or concepts.
Thinking Differences
In English, enfeeble often conveys a strong, external cause producing lasting weakness; learners may overuse it for minor fatigue or replace it with weaker terms in formal writing.
Learning Tips
- Pair enfeeble with an external cause (drought, illness, neglect).
- Compare enfeeble with weaken and diminish to feel the nuance difference.
- Practice be enfeebled by someone or something to show causation.
- Use in formal contexts or literary writing to sound precise.
- Avoid using enfeeble when you mean quick or temporary fatigue.
- Paraphrase enfeeble with other verbs to widen your vocabulary.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'enfeeble' mean?
A.To make weak or feeble
B.To strengthen or empower
C.To confuse or confound
D.To analyze or evaluate
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'enfeeble' correctly?
A.The intense heat will enfeeble my passion for hiking.
B.Exercise and good nutrition can enfeeble one's health.
C.The critics' harsh words did not enfeeble her confidence.
D.His constant doubts began to enfeeble her resolve.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'enfeeble'?
A.Strengthen
B.Affirm
C.Weaken
D.Enhance
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'enfeeble'?
A.Improve
B.Diminish
C.Subside
D.Neglect
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where a person's confidence might be impacted?
A.A successful project can help to enhance the team's morale and drive future success.
B.A constant stream of negativity from peers can create self-doubt and weaken self-esteem.
C.Being praised for hard work can lead to a lack of effort in future tasks.
D.Overcoming adversity can help to build strength and resilience.
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