feeble
UK[ˈfiːbl̩]US[ˈfiːbəl]
adj
Lacking physical strength, especially as a result of age or illness
adj
Lacking strength of character; weak and ineffectual
Etymology
The word 'feeble' has a poignant journey from expressing sorrow to describing weakness. It originates from the Latin 'flebilis', an adjective meaning 'lamentable' or 'worthy of tears', derived from the verb 'flere' (to weep). This sense of something pitiable and diminished was carried through Old French 'feble' into Middle English. Over time, the primary connotation shifted from the emotional reaction (something that makes one weep) to describe the inherent quality of the object itself: a lack of strength, power, or effectiveness, whether physical or moral.
Analysis
The word 'feeble' is a simplex word. It entered English as a whole unit from Old French 'feble' or 'foible', meaning weak or frail. Its ultimate origin is Latin 'flebilis', meaning 'lamentable' or 'to be wept over', from the verb 'flere' (to weep).
Examples
The patient was too feeble to walk unassisted.
He made a feeble attempt to explain his absence.
The light from the candle was feeble and cast long shadows.