vulnerability

[ vuhl-ner-uh-bil-i-tee ]

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

   the vulnerability of the giraffe.

Word History and Origins

Origin of vulnerability¹

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

Example Sentences

The leaked blueprints are reported to include the locations of key security features, such as cameras and sensors, making it easier for criminals to bypass security or exploit vulnerabilities.

From BBC

But despite their vulnerability, children are not eligible for the vaccines now being rolled out for the first time in the DRC.

From Science Magazine

I think that level of vulnerability helped us get there.

From Salon

The proposed agreement also called for Oracle to inspect TikTok’s programming code for vulnerabilities and for the platform’s content to be subject to independent monitoring.

From Los Angeles Times

She also reiterated she didn't have to explain this but wanted to have an openness and vulnerability with her audience to enact some positive change.

From Salon

Related Words

• susceptibility