tenuous
|ten-u-ous|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈtɛnjuəs/
🇬🇧
/ˈtɛnjʊəs/
weak or thin
Etymology
Etymology Information
'tenuous' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'tenuis,' where 'tenuis' meant 'thin or slender.'
Historical Evolution
'tenuis' transformed into the French word 'ténu,' and eventually became the modern English word 'tenuous' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'thin or slender,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'very weak or slight.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
very weak or slight; lacking strength or substance.
The connection between the two events is tenuous at best.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41