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Definition of weakly

weakly

/ˈwiːk.li/
weak · ly
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weakly Lexical Profile

weakly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that lacks physical strength, energy, or intensity; faintly or feebly.

Example

"Recovering from the flu, she smiled weakly at her visitors from the hospital bed."

2

Without conviction, authority, or effectiveness; unconvincingly.

Example

"He protested weakly against the new schedule before reluctantly agreeing to the changes."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Lacking physical strength, robustness, or good health; sickly and frail.

Example

"The veterinarian gave special attention to the weakly newborn calf until it could stand on its own."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for weakly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for weakly

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'weakly' (lacking strength or vigor) with its homophone 'weekly' (occurring once a week).

• Rhymes for weakly

• Nearby Words

weakhearted
weakish
weakling
weakly
weakness
wealth
wealthily

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'weikly', derived from Old Norse 'veikligr' ('weakly, frail'), corresponding to 'weak' + '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

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