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

"I wanted to tell a story about connection and the power of vulnerability, especially today," Davis told AFP.

From Barron's

The report found that Noem and DHS had created security vulnerabilities by waiving a requirement that passengers remove their shoes at security screenings before flying.

From The Wall Street Journal

It has also diversified supply in recent years to decrease vulnerability to import disruptions.

From Barron's

AI is seen as both enhancing security and creating new vulnerabilities, with hackers also leveraging AI tools.

From Barron's

The incidents highlight the vulnerability of key technology infrastructure like data centres during military conflicts.

From BBC

Related Words

• susceptibility