vulnerable
Definition
Vulnerable means being open to attack or harm. It can also mean being easily influenced or persuaded.
For example, a tree that is leaning over a river is vulnerable to falling over. A child who is alone in a park is vulnerable to being abducted.
In science, vulnerability can be used to describe a system that is susceptible to damage or destruction. For example, an ecosystem that is polluted is vulnerable to collapse.
How can the word be used?
The city was vulnerable to attack because it was not well-defended.
Different forms of the word
Adjective:
- open to attack or damage.
- susceptible to being deceived or tricked.
- easily hurt or offended.
Noun: a vulnerable person or thing.
Etymology
The word "vulnerable" comes from the Latin word "vulnerabilis", which means "capable of being wounded".
The first recorded use of the word "vulnerable" in English was in the 16th century.
Question
When might something be vulnerable?