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Definition of weaken

weaken

/ˈwiːkən/
weak · en
Adjective:weak
•
Past Simple:weakened
•
Past Participle:weakened
•
Present Participle:weakening
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weaken Lexical Profile

weaken Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make or become less strong in physical power, structural integrity, authority, or effectiveness.

Example

"Years of harsh coastal weather had begun to weaken the old wooden pier."

2

To become less intense, severe, or resolute; to waver in determination or conviction.

Example

"The storm is expected to weaken considerably once it moves inland over the mountains."

3

To decline in market value, exchange rate, or purchasing power (especially of a currency, stock, or economy).

Example

"The national currency continued to weaken against major foreign benchmarks throughout the third quarter."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for weaken

• Nearby Words

wazoo
we
weak
weaken
weakener
weakfish
weakhearted

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as 'wekenen' from the adjective 'weak' (borrowed from Old Norse 'veikr', meaning 'pliable' or 'yielding') combined with the verbal suffix '-en'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Weaken. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/weaken
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