English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word brittle in English

What does brittle mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

brittle

US /ˈbrɪt̬.əl/
UK /ˈbrɪt.əl/
"brittle" picture

Adjective

1.

hard but liable to break easily

Example:
•
The old plastic had become brittle with age.
•
Her bones were brittle due to osteoporosis.
Synonym:
fragile breakable crisp crumbly delicate flaky friable short splintery tender weak
2.

having a sharp, hard, but not resonant sound

Example:
•
The brittle sound of dry leaves crunching underfoot filled the autumn air.
•
The old piano produced a rather brittle tone.
Synonym:
sharp crisp harsh grating rasping
3.

appearing or sounding cold and unfeeling

Example:
•
Her voice was brittle with suppressed anger.
•
He gave a brittle laugh that lacked warmth.
Synonym:
cold harsh unfeeling hard stern austere
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