The word Susceptible (Adjective) describes someone or something likely to be influenced, harmed, or affected by a particular factor or force. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use Susceptible correctly in sentences.
Susceptible Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word Susceptible including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Susceptible
Susceptible means being easily affected or influenced by something, such as disease, emotion, or suggestion. It can describe physical vulnerability (e.g., to illness), emotional openness (e.g., to praise or criticism), or cognitive sensitivity (e.g., to influence or ideas).
Definition
Susceptible refers to the condition of being likely or prone to be affected by something external. When someone is described as susceptible. Emotionally, a person may be susceptible to flattery or peer pressure, making them more easily persuaded or manipulated. The word often carries a neutral tone, but it may imply a lack of resistance or a certain fragility depending on context.
Etymology
The word susceptible comes from the Late Latin word susceptibilis, derived from suscipere, which means “to take up, sustain, or receive.” The Latin roots break down into sub- meaning “up from below” and capere meaning “to take. First used in English in the early 1600s, the word initially referred to capacity or receptiveness. Over time, it gained more specific applications, especially in medicine and psychology. Today, “susceptible” maintains that original sense of openness—whether to illness, emotion, or external factors—while also reflecting contexts of risk and responsiveness.
Example Sentences
- People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infections.
- He’s highly susceptible to criticism, often taking feedback very personally.
- Children are especially susceptible to advertising messages on television.
Susceptible Synonyms
- Vulnerable
- Prone
- Exposed
- Sensitive
- Open
- Defenseless
- Impressionable
- Receptive
- Liable
- Unprotected
Susceptible Antonyms
- Resistant
- Immune
- Shielded
- Insusceptible
- Protected
- Strong
- Hardened
- Insensitive
- Robust
- Stable
FAQs about Susceptible
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Susceptible”
1. Can someone be emotionally susceptible?
Yes, it refers to people who are easily influenced by praise, criticism, or emotional experiences.
2. Is being susceptible always negative?
Not necessarily—it can also mean being receptive, open-minded, or emotionally attuned, depending on the context.
3. How is “susceptible” used in science?
In medicine, physics, and engineering, it often refers to responsiveness to disease, force, or stimulus.