Webster's English Dictionary

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weaken

weak.en \'we--k*n\ \'we-k-(*-)nin\ \-(*-)n*r\ vb or weak.en.ing 1: to make 
   weak : lessen the strength of  2: to reduce in intensity or effectiveness  
   : to become weak SAP, CRIPPLE, DISABLE mean to lose or cause to lose 
   strength or vigor. WEAKEN may imply loss of physical strength, health, 
   soundness, or stability or of quality, intensity, or effective power; 
   ENFEEBLE implies an obvious and pitiable condition of weakness and 
   helplessness; DEBILITATE suggests a less marked or more temporary 
   impairment of strength or vitality; UNDERMINE and SAP suggest a weakening 
   by something working surreptitiously and insidiously; CRIPPLE implies 
   causing a serious loss of functioning power through damaging or removing an 
   essential part or element; DISABLE suggests a usu. sudden crippling or 
   enfeebling that makes one unable to carry on customary work or activity - 
   weak.en.er n SYN syn WEAKEN, ENFEEBLE, DEBILITATE, UNDERMINE,