vulnerability

American  

[vuhl-ner-uh-bil-i-tee] / ˌvʌl nər əˈbɪl ɪ ti /

Rarely vulnerableness

noun

1. openness or susceptibility to attack or harm.

   We need to develop bold policies that will reduce the vulnerability of farmers to drought and floods.

2. willingness to show emotion or to allow one’s weaknesses to be seen or known; willingness to risk being emotionally hurt.

   The foundation for open communication consists of honesty, trust, and vulnerability.

3. the condition of needing supportive or protective social services and community resources because of advanced age, poverty, disability, etc..

   the vulnerability of disabled senior citizens.

4. Biology, likeliness to be classified as an endangered species in the near future unless circumstances improve.

   the vulnerability of the giraffe.

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Etymology

Origin of vulnerability

First recorded in 1800–10; vulnerable ( def. ) + -ity ( def. )

Example Sentences

But she said there were risks too, with the possibility groups could accidentally target individuals "whose behaviour is rooted in vulnerability rather than malice".

From BBC

He said he accepted she had "some vulnerabilities", but she had tried to use them as a "shield and an excuse" for her actions.

From BBC

Q: What are some of the main security vulnerabilities facing quantum computers right now?

From Science Daily

"This latest disaster is a stark reminder of Mozambique's vulnerability to the convergence of multiple shocks -- including conflict, drought, cyclones in recent years and now severe flooding."

From Barron's

But Lori Calvasina, head of U.S. equity strategy at RBC Capital Markets, sees some vulnerabilities in the sector that give her cause for concern.

From Barron's

Related Words

• susceptibility