frangible

[ fran-juh-buhl ]

adjective

1. easily broken; breakable:

   Most frangible toys are not suitable for young children.

   Synonyms: frail, fragile

frangible

/ ˈfrændʒɪbəl /

adjective

1. breakable or fragile

Derived Forms

• ˌfrangiˈbility, noun

Other Words From

• frangi·bili·ty frangi·ble·ness noun
• nonfran·gi·bili·ty noun
• non·frangi·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of frangible¹

1375–1425; late Middle English < Old French, derivative of Latin frangere to break; -ible

Word History and Origins

Origin of frangible¹

C15: from Old French, ultimately from Latin frangere to break

Example Sentences

If it become frangible, add a sufficient quantity of mercury, and it will be perfect.

From Project Gutenberg

Its lamellar texture is not very distinct; its fracture is wavy, and it is easily frangible.

From Project Gutenberg

Fortunately there was nothing frangible inside, and so no damage was done.

From Project Gutenberg

The women bore crockery and other frangible articles, and helped Fessenden's drive the cow.

From Project Gutenberg

A frangible plate D closes the end of barrel A, but blows out above a certain pressure to avoid bursting strain in the gun.

From Project Gutenberg