Nearest Meaning of Debilitate: Weakening

Debilitate means to weaken or make someone or something less strong. In the given options, the word that gives the nearest meaning to debilitate is "weakening" (option B).

Here is a detailed explanation of why "weakening" is the correct answer:

1. Definition of Debilitate
Debilitate is a verb that means to make someone or something physically or mentally weak or feeble. It implies a reduction in strength, energy, or effectiveness.

2. Synonyms and Antonyms
To understand the meaning of debilitate better, let's look at its synonyms and antonyms:

- Synonyms: weaken, enfeeble, sap, exhaust, drain, incapacitate
- Antonyms: strengthen, fortify, invigorate, energize, empower

3. Comparison of Options
Now, let's compare the given options to determine the word that gives the nearest meaning to debilitate:

a) Strong: The opposite of debilitate. It means having great physical or moral power or strength.

b) Weakening: This option is the correct answer as it directly corresponds to the meaning of debilitate. Weakening means making someone or something less strong or powerful.

c) Soft: This option does not convey the same sense of weakness or reduction in strength as debilitate. Soft refers to something that is not hard or firm.

d) Fragile: Fragile means easily broken or damaged. While fragility implies a certain level of weakness, it does not capture the full meaning of debilitate.

4. Reasoning for Choosing Option B
Among the given options, only "weakening" accurately captures the meaning of debilitate. It signifies a reduction in strength, energy, or effectiveness, which aligns with the definition of debilitate.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option B, "weakening."