flaccidity

[ fla-sid-i-tee, flak- ]

noun

1. the state or condition of being soft and limp; flabbiness or lack of firmness:

   This therapy also tightens the skin by helping to reduce flaccidity, lift sagging tissues, and restore skin tone and structure.

2. lack of strength or force; weakness:

   Assuring other nations that the United States will exercise its power responsibly, sparingly, virtuously, and in accordance with international norms is not a sign of moral flaccidity.

Word History and Origins

Origin of flaccidity¹

flaccid ( def ) + -ity ( def )

Example Sentences

In one jolting scene, they set an emotional showdown on a nude beach — but neither character finds the gratuitous flaccidity funny.

From New York Times

In 1963, Dr. King called out white people for the tepidness and flaccidity of their commitment to racial reconciliation.

From Seattle Times

During the 2004 presidential campaign, George W. Bush would defend the prosecution of the war he started by reiterating Bennett’s themes — the vigilance and courage required for single-minded action, the flaccidity of dissent.

From New York Times

In fairness, very few elite level matches, even in the fast-forward Premier League, are marked by such a striking mix of attacking energy, defensive flaccidity, brittle central midfield and Granit Xhaka.

From The Guardian

Storage in the freezer, then a brief spell in the oven, will negate the flaccidity I put down to the damp weather.

From Forbes

Related Words

• elasticity
• resilience