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debilidad means weakness — a common term in Medical Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: January 7, 2026

🩺 Medical Spanish

debilidad

noun • /[de-bee-lee-DAD]/

weakness

Example:

Tiene debilidad en las piernas.

She has weakness in her legs.

🧠 What does debilidad mean?

Debilidad is a feminine noun that translates to 'weakness'. It refers to a lack of physical or muscular strength. In medical contexts, it describes a state of reduced energy, fatigue, or the inability to exert force. Figuratively, 'debilidad' can also mean a character flaw, a lack of resolve, or a particular fondness for something, often expressed as 'tener una debilidad por algo' (to have a weakness for something).

📚 Extra examples

  • Después de la operación, el paciente sentía una gran debilidad en todo el cuerpo.
    After the surgery, the patient felt great weakness throughout his entire body.
  • La indecisión es su mayor debilidad como líder.
    Indecisiveness is his greatest weakness as a leader.
  • Mi abuela tiene debilidad por los dulces, especialmente por el chocolate.
    My grandmother has a weakness for sweets, especially for chocolate.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'debilidad' is formed from the adjective 'débil' (weak). In Spanish, the suffix '-dad' is frequently added to adjectives to create abstract nouns that describe a quality or state, similar to the English suffix '-ness' (weak -> weakness). Other examples include 'felicidad' (happiness) from 'feliz' (happy) and 'maldad' (evil) from 'malo' (bad).

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "debilidad"

Synonyms: flaqueza, fragilidad, endeblez, astenia, lasitud
Opposites: fortaleza, fuerza, vigor, robustez

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'weakness' in Spanish?
The most common and direct way to say 'weakness' in Spanish is 'debilidad'.
How do you pronounce 'debilidad' in Spanish?
'Debilidad' is pronounced /de.βi.liˈðad/. The stress falls on the final syllable, '-dad'.
How do you use 'debilidad' in a sentence?
An example sentence is: 'El médico le preguntó sobre su debilidad y mareos.' (The doctor asked him about his weakness and dizziness).
What is the English translation of 'debilidad'?
The primary English translation of 'debilidad' is 'weakness'.
Does 'debilidad' change for gender or number?
'Debilidad' is a feminine noun. It does not change for gender. Its plural form is 'debilidades' (weaknesses).
Is 'debilidad' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'debilidad' is a common word used in both formal medical settings and everyday conversations to describe physical sensations, character traits, or personal preferences.
Does 'debilidad' have slang or double meanings?
'Debilidad' does not have common slang meanings. Its primary meanings relate to physical weakness, a character flaw, or having a strong fondness or 'soft spot' for something.
Is 'debilidad' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and usage of 'debilidad' are consistent across the Spanish-speaking world.

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