Weakness

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈwiːk.nÉ™s/

Origin

weak + -ness

Full definition of weakness

Noun

1. (uncountable) The condition of being weak.
   In a small number of horses, muscle weakness may progress to paralysis.
2. (countable) An inadequate quality; fault
• 1963, Margery Allingham, The China Governess Chapter 20, The story struck the depressingly familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen. No one queried it. It was in the classic pattern of human weakness, mean and embarrassing and sad.
• 2013, January 22, Phil McNulty, Aston Villa 2-1 Bradford (3-4), Bradford had preyed on Villa's inability to defend set pieces, corners in particular, in their first-leg win and took advantage of the weakness again as Hanson equalised to restore their two-goal aggregate lead.
3. His inability to speak in front of an audience was his weakness.
4. (countable) A special fondness or desire.
   She is an athlete who has a weakness for chocolate.