Vulnerable

Definition

Vulnerable describes a condition in which one is susceptible to harm, attack, or criticism, either physically, emotionally, or in any other form.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈvʌlnərəbəl/
• Respelling: VUL-nuh-ruh-buhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈvʌlnərəbl/
• Respelling: VUL-nuh-ruh-buhl

In both American and British English, "vulnerable" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable. It features a short "u" sound as in "cup," followed by "nuh-ruh-buhl." The pronunciation is essentially the same in both versions of English, with minor variations in vowel sounds and rhoticity.

Etymology

The term "vulnerable" originates from the Latin word "vulnerabilis", which means "wounding" or "injurious". This is derived from "vulnus", which translates to "wound".

Derivatives

• Vulnerability
• Vulnerably
• Vulnerableness
• Vulneration
• Vulnerary

Synonyms

• Exposed
• Defenseless
• Susceptible

Antonyms

• Protected
• Resilient
• Impenetrable

Usage

Being described as vulnerable can be about an emotional state where someone is open or sensitive to emotional experiences, or it can signify a weak point in a system or structure susceptible to threats.

Related Terms

• Fragility
• Weakness
• Exposure
• Sensitivity
• Susceptibility

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Liable to be harmed, attacked, or subjected to criticism or other negative or harmful actions.‍
• Example: Due to its location, the coastal town is vulnerable to hurricanes.

• Open to emotional wounds or being deeply affected by emotions, typically due to a genuine openness or an underlying emotional condition.‍
• Example: After the traumatic incident, she felt incredibly vulnerable and sought counseling.

• Having a particular susceptibility to a specific element or situation, which can be detrimental.‍
• Example: The ancient software made the company's database vulnerable to new-age cyber threats.