weaken (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈwiːkən/

Definition

To make or become less strong, firm, or effective.

Examples

• The medicine should weaken the virus without harming the patient.

• His resolve began to weaken after days of interrogation.

• The constant criticism seemed to weaken her confidence.

How to Use weaken

weaken something (collocation)

To reduce the strength or effectiveness of something. — "The economic sanctions were designed to weaken the country's financial power."

weaken by (prepositional phrase)

To become less strong due to a specific cause. — "His argument was weakened by the lack of evidence."

weaken to (prepositional phrase)

To become less strong and start to give in or fail. — "The dam began to weaken to the immense pressure of the floodwaters."

Synonyms of weaken

Words with a similar meaning to weaken:

• lessen
• reduce
• diminish
• undermine

Antonyms of weaken

Words with the opposite meaning to weaken:

• strengthen
• reinforce

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