fragile

6 definitions • 12 examples

A fragile object is easily damaged or broken:

Be careful with that vase - it's very fragile.

Some of the more fragile items are kept in a locked case.

easily destroyed, ended, or made to fail:

The assassination could end the fragile peace agreement that was signed last month.

Seasonal illnesses expose how fragile the region's healthcare infrastructure is.

weak or in poor health, physically or mentally:

He looked rather fragile after his operation.

The hospital wing provides a safer environment for medically fragile children.

feeling slightly ill, upset, or tired, especially because of having drunk too much alcohol the night before:

No breakfast for me, thanks - I'm feeling a little fragile after last night's party.

easily damaged, broken, or harmed:

a fragile piece of metal

Their argument showed us just how fragile the teammate relationship can be.

I feel fragile, as if a breath of wind could knock me over.

easily harmed, damaged, or broken:

The fragile economy is under the pressure of floods at home and rising oil prices abroad.

The changes would be disastrous for the fragile recovery of the UK's oil and gas industry.