{"id":6838,"date":"2025-07-13T11:12:43","date_gmt":"2025-07-13T11:12:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.buhave.com\/dictionary\/?p=6838"},"modified":"2026-05-24T05:41:05","modified_gmt":"2026-05-24T05:41:05","slug":"infirmity","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.buhave.com\/dictionary\/infirmity\/","title":{"rendered":"Infirmity \u2013 Meaning, Definition, Synonyms and Antonyms"},"content":{"rendered":"

The word Infirmity (Noun)<\/strong> refers to physical or mental weakness\u2014especially when it comes from aging, illness, or other long-term conditions. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples<\/strong> of how to use Infirmity correctly in sentences.<\/p>\n

Infirmity Explained in Depth<\/h2>\n

A complete, detailed, and practical guide to the word Infirmity, including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.<\/p>\n

Meanings of Infirmity<\/h3>\n

Infirmity means a state of being physically or mentally weak, often as a result of aging, chronic illness, or other long-term conditions. It can also refer to a moral failing or weakness in character.<\/p>\n

Definition<\/h3>\n

Infirmity refers to a condition of frailty, vulnerability, or lack of strength that affects a person\u2019s ability to function normally. This condition is typically associated with old age or long-term illness, but it can also be temporary, resulting from injury, fatigue, or stress. Infirmity doesn’t only apply to physical health; it can also describe mental and emotional weaknesses, such as forgetfulness, indecisiveness, or a tendency toward certain moral failings. In some contexts, it can be used metaphorically to highlight a flaw in one’s character, like a moral infirmity such as dishonesty or cowardice.<\/p>\n

The term is often used in literature, healthcare, and religious discourse to convey a sense of human vulnerability and limitation. In legal or philosophical contexts, “infirmity” might also imply a diminished capacity or inability to perform certain tasks due to mental or physical condition. If you’re looking for closely related vocabulary, you may also find the definition of debility<\/a> helpful, since it similarly points to reduced strength and stamina.<\/p>\n

Etymology<\/h3>\n

The word infirmity originates from the Latin word infirmitas<\/em>, a combination of in-<\/em> meaning “not” and firmus<\/em> meaning “strong” or “stable.” The Latin root directly points to a lack of strength or robustness, whether in the body, mind, or spirit. From Latin, the word passed into Old French as infirmite<\/em>, then entered Middle English around the 14th century as infirmite<\/em>. Over time, it evolved into the modern spelling infirmity<\/em>. In historical texts, it was often used to describe the general frailty of old age or the moral weaknesses of humankind.<\/p>\n

The concept has been especially prevalent in religious literature, where “infirmities” were seen not only as physical ailments but also as spiritual shortcomings. This dual meaning combining both bodily and moral weakness has carried into modern usage, giving the term its broad and layered significance today. Related vocabulary that also reflects physical vulnerability is fragility<\/a>, though the tone differs.<\/p>\n

Example Sentences<\/h3>\n