Susceptibility
/səˌseptəˈbɪlɪti/
Definitions
The state of being likely to be influenced or harmed by something; a vulnerability.
/səˌseptəˈbɪlɪti/
The state or fact of being likely or liable to be influenced or harmed by a particular thing.
The plant's susceptibility to frost was a major concern for the farmer.
💡 Simply: Susceptibility is like your 'weak spot'. It's how easily something can affect or harm you. If you're susceptible to the flu, you're more likely to catch it. Imagine your favorite ice cream; if you're susceptible to its deliciousness, you'll eat a lot!
👶 For kids: Susceptibility means how easy it is for something to hurt you or make you sick. Like, if you're susceptible to getting a cold, you might catch it easily.
More Examples
The study examined the susceptibility of the population to social pressure.
Increased stress can increase one's susceptibility to illness.
How It's Used
"Patients with certain genetic predispositions show increased susceptibility to the virus."
"Research explores the susceptibility of individuals to propaganda and misinformation."
"The software's susceptibility to malware was a major security concern."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From Late Latin *susceptibilitas*, from *susceptibilis* ("capable of receiving"), from *suscipere* ("to take up, receive").
The word 'susceptibility' has been used since the 17th century and its usage has remained relatively consistent, primarily within scientific, medical, and philosophical contexts.
Memory tip
Think of 'susceptible' - if you are susceptible, you have susceptibility.
Word Origin
"capable of receiving or undergoing influence"