noun
weakling
week-LIHNGG
Weakling (noun) means a physically frail or sickly person. Example: “He used to be teased as a weakling before he took up boxing.”
noun
1
A physically frail or sickly person.
"He used to be teased as a weakling before he took up boxing."
2
Someone lacking courage or moral backbone.
"Only a weakling would let his friends take the blame."
How to use weakling
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA person who is physically weak, or who lacks the courage to stand up for themselves.
When to use it
Somewhat insulting — used to belittle, not a neutral clinical term.
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Word forms
- Plural
- weaklings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He used to be teased as a _____ before he took up boxing.
Etymology
Formed from "weak" plus the diminutive suffix "-ling," as in "duckling" or "hireling."
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “weakling” mean?
The word “weakling” means a physically frail or sickly person. In plain terms, a person who is physically weak, or who lacks the courage to stand up for themselves.
How do you pronounce “weakling”?
“Weakling” is pronounced week-LIHNGG (/ˈwiːkˈlɪŋɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “weakling” in a sentence?
Here is “weakling” used in a sentence: “He used to be teased as a weakling before he took up boxing.”
What is another word for “weakling”?
Words with a similar meaning to “weakling” include pushover, sissy and weenie.
What is the opposite of “weakling”?
The opposite of “weakling” — its antonyms — is strongling.
What part of speech is “weakling”?
“Weakling” is a noun.
How many meanings does “weakling” have?
“Weakling” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a physically frail or sickly person.
