Enfeebling is a verb that means to weaken or deprive of strength. It is pronounced /ɛnˈfiːblɪŋ/. The first syllable "en" is pronounced like "ehn" and represents a prefix meaning "to cause or become." The second syllable "fee" is pronounced like "fee" and represents the root word "feeble," meaning weak or frail. The final syllable "bling" is pronounced like "bling" and represents the verb ending. Together, the phonetic transcription represents the combination of various sounds that form the complete pronunciation of the word "enfeebling."
Enfeebling is an adjective describing something that weakens or diminishes strength, vitality, or effectiveness. The term can be used in various contexts, including physical, emotional, or even intellectual references.
Physically, enfeebling can refer to a state of debilitation or the reduction of bodily strength. It denotes a condition where one's physical capabilities are impaired, resulting in decreased energy levels and overall functionality. This could be caused by illness, injury, or prolonged inactivity.
In an emotional sense, enfeebling suggests a state of mental or psychological weakness. It implies a lack of emotional resilience and the susceptibility to being easily overwhelmed, drained, or manipulated. Emotional enfeebling can result from traumatic experiences, chronic stress, or underlying psychological conditions.
Intellectually, enfeebling refers to a weakening of mental faculties or cognitive abilities. It indicates a state of diminished intellectual aptitude, often characterized by reduced critical thinking skills, memory impairment, or difficulty with concentration and comprehension. Factors leading to intellectual enfeeblement could include brain injuries, neurological disorders, or age-related cognitive decline.
Overall, enfeebling conveys a sense of deterioration, weakening, or reduced capacity in various aspects of human functioning. It expresses the idea of diminished strength, vitality, or effectiveness, whether it be physical, emotional, or intellectual.
Weakening; debilitating.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "enfeebling" is derived from the combination of the prefix "en-" and the verb "feeble".
The verb "feeble" originates from the Old French word "feble" which means "weak". It can be traced back to the Latin term "flēbilis" which translates as "worthy of tears" or "lamentable". The Latin term comes from "flēre" which means "to weep or cry".
The addition of the prefix "en-" to "feeble" intensifies the meaning, transforming it into "enfeeble", signifying to make or become extremely weak or feeble.