asthenic

[ as-then-ik ]

adjective

of, relating to, or characterized by asthenia; weak.
(of a physical type) having a slight build or slender body structure.: Compare athletic (def. 5), pyknic (def. 1).

noun

a person of the asthenic type.

Origin of asthenic

1780–90; <Greek asthenikós, equivalent to asthen- (see asthenia) + -ikos-ic

Words Nearby asthenic

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use asthenic in a sentence

By the asthenic and emaciated general condition and the peculiar puffy, spongy state of the gums.
Essentials of Diseases of the Skin | Henry Weightman Stelwagon
The convulsion caused by Strychnia is tonic; that by Hydrocyanic acid, asthenic.
The Action of Medicines in the System | Frederick William Headland
To those who walk or stand in this fashion, let it be known that this is the “habitus enteroptoticus,” or asthenic droop.
How to Live | Irving Fisher and Eugene Fisk
These were to be used respectively in asthenic and in sthenic disorders.
The Action of Medicines in the System | Frederick William Headland
These latter were to be used in sthenic, the others in asthenic disorders.
The Action of Medicines in the System | Frederick William Headland

British Dictionary definitions for asthenic

asthenic

/ (æsˈθɛnɪk) /

adjective

of, relating to, or having asthenia; weak
(in constitutional psychology) referring to a physique characterized by long limbs and a small trunk: claimed to be associated with a schizoid personality: See also somatotype

noun

a person having long limbs and a small trunk

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Browse