View synonyms for

vulnerability

[ vuhl-ner-uh-bil-i-tee ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

openness or susceptibility to attack or harm:
We need to develop bold policies that will reduce the vulnerability of farmers to drought and floods.
willingness to show emotion or to allow one’s weaknesses to be seen or known; willingness to risk being emotionally hurt:
The foundation for open communication consists of honesty, trust, and vulnerability.
the condition of needing supportive or protective social services and community resources because of advanced age, poverty, disability, etc.:
the vulnerability of disabled senior citizens.
Biology, Ecology. likeliness to be classified as an endangered species in the near future unless circumstances improve:
the vulnerability of the giraffe.

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Word History and Origins

Origin of vulnerability¹

First recorded in 1800–10; vulnerable ( def ) + -ity ( def )

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Only Elordi, variously treated like beefcake and brooder, seems lost trying to square Julius’ early vulnerability with the final act’s hopeful romance.

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This level of vulnerability is too much for Joe, though, so it’s no wonder that most of the people who see him this way end up dead.

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It was an attempt to chum the waters, demonstrate Trumpian vulnerability and sabotage the incoming administration before it even took office.

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While, like Diana, she has exponentially more charisma than the average royal, Meghan doesn't possess the late princess' messy vulnerability.

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He said while this may feel daunting for some smaller organisations, many common vulnerabilities "can be addressed through practical, proportionate steps".

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Related Words

susceptibility

vulned vulnerable

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