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weak state

/weɪk steɪt/ · weak·state
noun
  1. A state of being vulnerable or susceptible to external influences or threats. The country's weak state made it an easy target for foreign intervention.
  2. A situation where a system or organization lacks the resources or capacity to function effectively. The hospital's weak state led to a backlog of patients and a shortage of medical supplies.
Did you know? The concept of a 'weak state' is often used in international relations and political science to describe countries that are struggling to maintain stability and security.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Aug 9, 2026