English Reference

Word

weakened

Phoneticsweak·ened, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈwikənd/

UK/wˈiːkənd/

Definitions

01less strong or powerful

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. having less strength, power, or energy than before.

adj. characterised by a reduction in physical strength, political power, or functional capacity.

“The long illness left him in a weakened state for several weeks.”

“The prime minister emerged from the scandal in a significantly weakened position, struggling to maintain the loyalty of her own cabinet.”

Synonyms

enfeebledfrailimpaired

02physically fragile

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. describes a structure or material that is no longer solid or safe.

adj. referring to a loss of structural or material integrity, often due to external stress or decay.

“The weakened walls of the old house were dangerous after the storm.”

“Engineers discovered that the bridge's support beams had been weakened by decades of exposure to saltwater and heavy traffic.”

Antonyms

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “weakened” in context.

01. weakened immune

Real-World Examples

“Hawaii was menaced by Hurricane Fausto last month before the storm weakened and skirted north of the island chain.”
Phys.org 16 Aug 2026
“The researchers also highlighted several other concerns they believe weakened the original conclusions.”
ScienceDaily 14 Jun 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference