weaken

[wee-kuhn] / ˈwi kən /

VERB

reduce the strength of

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abate decline decrease depress dilute diminish dwindle halt impair lessen lower reduce sap soften undermine wane

STRONG

adulterate crumble cut debase debilitate devitalize droop enervate exhaust fade fail faint flag impoverish invalidate languish limp lose minimize mitigate moderate relapse relax temper thin tire totter tremble vitiate wilt

WEAK

break up ease up give way lose spirit slow down thin out water down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist compliment develop encourage enlarge expand extend grow help increase praise prolong raise rise strengthen

STRONG

achieve activate aggravate agitate animate clean energize enhance excite free improve incite invigorate purify refresh succeed win

WEAK

build up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Woodward’s stance could weaken the department’s ability to challenge anticompetitive mergers and speed up settlements.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 25, 2026

Because chemical signals weaken as they travel, researchers have long wondered how cells located deep within a growing brain can accurately determine where they are.

From Science Daily • Jun. 25, 2026

In 2001, food-freedom advocates, including Stewart, successfully petitioned the county to weaken regulations, providing McAfee access to a new pool of customers.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2026

"Hope that this trial will help other women and further weaken the wall of denial and impunity surrounding sexual violence, including in the world of men's football."

From BBC • Jun. 19, 2026

“I agree with you with all my heart,” I answered earnestly, for I did not want him to weaken in this matter.

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker

weaken

Example Sentences

Related Words