Fragile - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

'Fragile' describes something easily broken or damaged. A glass ornament, a rare butterfly, or a tense truce between warring factions can all be fragile. 💔 It means it needs to be handled with extreme care to avoid harm. It's more than just delicate; it suggests a high risk of breaking. Think of it as the opposite of being robust or sturdy. Like a house of cards, it could collapse at any moment.

Etymology

The word 'fragile' comes from the Latin word 'fragilis,' which means 'easily broken.' This, in turn, comes from 'frangere,' meaning 'to break.' The etymology directly reflects the word's meaning. 'Fragile' has been used in English since the 15th century to describe physical and metaphorical vulnerability.

Related Words

Examples

  • "The package was marked 'fragile' to ensure careful handling."
  • "The peace treaty was fragile and could collapse at any moment."
  • "Her emotional state was fragile after the traumatic event."
  • "The antique vase was incredibly fragile and required special care."

Anecdote / Story

Remember the glass figurines in 'Toy Story'? They were fragile and always at risk of being broken by Sid. Or think of Anakin's emotional state in the 'Star Wars' prequels; his trust in the Jedi was fragile, and Palpatine exploited that. It's about recognizing the potential for things to fall apart easily.

Encouragement

Use 'fragile' when you want to emphasize the vulnerability of something. It's a word that conveys a sense of caution and care. Be mindful of the fragile things around you and treat them with respect! 💖

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