Enfeebling

/ɪnˈfiːbəlɪŋ/ verb

Definition

The ongoing process of making weak or reducing strength; weakening.

Etymology

Present participle of enfeeble, using the -ing suffix. Combines en- + feeble + -ing to show the continuous action of weakening.

Kelly Says

The -ing form is interesting because it emphasizes process rather than completion—'enfeebling' suggests a slow, gradual wear-down, which is why you see it in Victorian literature describing the slow decline of characters through grief or illness.

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