The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

vulnerable

IPA:

Dictionary definition of vulnerable

Open to harm, attack, or damage, either physically or emotionally.
"The company was vulnerable to a cyber attack because of weak security measures."

Detailed meaning of vulnerable

It implies a state of being exposed or unprotected, and having a higher risk of being affected by negative events or circumstances. In the context of physical vulnerability, it refers to being susceptible to injury or illness. In the context of emotional vulnerability, it refers to being open to emotional hurt, such as feeling insecure, exposed, or unprotected. In the context of security, it refers to being open to attack or exploitation. In the context of social vulnerability, it refers to being at a disadvantage or facing a higher risk of negative outcomes due to factors such as poverty, discrimination, or lack of access to resources. In general, when something or someone is described as vulnerable, it implies a state of being open to harm, attack, or damage, either physically or emotionally, and a higher risk of being affected by negative events or circumstances.

Example sentences containing vulnerable

1. The baby birds, vulnerable and delicate, awaited their mother's return.
2. During the transition period, the company was vulnerable to hostile takeovers.
3. His vulnerable demeanor touched her, pushing her to extend a helping hand.
4. Vulnerable to hacking, our computer systems needed significant security upgrades.
5. The fragile ecosystem in the Arctic is incredibly vulnerable to human activities.
6. After the surgery, she felt unusually vulnerable and dependent on others.

History and etymology of vulnerable

The adjective 'vulnerable' finds its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'vulnerabilis,' which is a combination of 'vulnerare,' meaning 'to wound' or 'to injure,' and the suffix '-bilis,' signifying capability or susceptibility. In Latin, 'vulnerabilis' described something or someone that could be wounded or harmed, either physically or metaphorically. Over time, this term was incorporated into English as 'vulnerable,' and it continues to describe individuals, situations, or conditions that are open to harm, attack, or damage, either physically or emotionally. 'Vulnerable' underscores the susceptibility or fragility of something or someone, emphasizing their potential for being adversely affected by external factors or threats. The etymology of 'vulnerable' reflects its historical association with the idea of being woundable or easily harmed.

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Further usage examples of vulnerable

1. In the dimmed light, his vulnerable side, seldom revealed, came to the fore.
2. Young children are especially vulnerable to harmful content on the internet.
3. The drought made the crops vulnerable to pest attacks.
4. She hid her vulnerable feelings behind a facade of confidence.
5. The castle, vulnerable at its western flank, fell after a prolonged siege.
6. The elderly are particularly vulnerable during severe winter storms.
7. After the divorce, he felt vulnerable and alone in the big city.
8. High-risk patients are more vulnerable to complications from the surgery.
9. His vulnerable confession brought them closer than before.
10. The vulnerable state of the economy caused widespread worry among investors.
11. Her empathy made her vulnerable to others' suffering.
12. Cyberbullying leaves many teenagers feeling vulnerable and helpless.
13. His heart was vulnerable, still mending from the pain of past relationships.
14. The child appeared vulnerable, lost in the crowded mall.
15. After the breakup, she felt emotionally vulnerable.
16. The old bridge was structurally vulnerable to collapse.
17. Without a helmet, cyclists are vulnerable to head injuries.
18. The company's weak cybersecurity left it vulnerable to hackers.
19. In harsh weather, the homeless are especially vulnerable.
20. Vulnerable ecosystems require protection from environmental threats.
21. Vulnerable populations need access to healthcare services.
22. Being alone in a foreign city can make you feel vulnerable.
23. Sharing personal stories can leave us emotionally vulnerable.
24. A lack of self-confidence can make people feel socially vulnerable.