foible

[ foi-buhl ]

noun

1. a minor weakness or failing of character; slight flaw or defect:

   an all-too-human foible.

   Synonyms: peculiarity, eccentricity, crotchet, quirk, frailty

   Antonyms: strength

2. the weaker part of a sword blade, between the middle and the point ( forte ).

foible

/ ˈfɔɪbəl /

noun

1. a slight peculiarity or minor weakness; idiosyncrasy
2. the most vulnerable part of a sword's blade, from the middle to the tip Compare forte 1

Word History and Origins

Origin of foible¹

First recorded in 1640–50; from French, obsolete form of faible feeble

Word History and Origins

Origin of foible¹

C17: from obsolete French, from obsolete adj: feeble

Synonym Study

See fault.

Example Sentences

The saying — believed to be a witticism about Parker’s own romantic foibles — has been used on the show in some form at least a dozen times since 1985, according to the fan-operated J! archive.

From Los Angeles Times

The overall tension allows us to skim over the flaws and foibles in the script, especially when the resolution is so hard-fought.

From Los Angeles Times

Incidentally, it’s not the first time the adage — believed to be a witticism about Parker’s own romantic foibles — has been used on the show.

From Los Angeles Times

We have been very good at pointing out Trump’s foibles.

From Salon

Humor mixes with a deep understanding of American foibles and the human heart to produce a riveting novel of ideas.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• eccentricity
• failing
• frailty
• idiosyncrasy
• infirmity
• peculiarity
• quirk
• shortcoming
• weakness