rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryfrangibleReadily broken
adjective

frangible

FRAN-juh-bul/ˈfrændʒəbəl/

Designed or likely to break into pieces under impact or pressure.

The frangible cup breaks into pieces after a light accidental knock.

A delicate thin ceramic cup breaks into several pieces after a light accidental knock, object only.
Etymology
frangLatinto break
+ibleLatincapable of being

The pieces express being capable of being broken. In the selected sense, frangible describes something that breaks readily into pieces, rather than merely something breakable in principle.

In context

The Marksman's Journal0:59
When a frangible bullet strikes a hard target, it shatters into tiny fragments or dust.
What Is Frangible 9mm Ammunition? - The Marksman's Journal

More examples

  • Excess pressure shatters the frangible disk inside the valve.
  • Frangible bullets break apart when they strike a hard surface.
  • Foam padding protects the frangible ceramic parts during shipping.

Forms

frangible

frangibility noun — The quality of breaking easily into pieces.

Similar words

brittle
Emphasizes snapping or shattering rather than bending under force.
fragile
Describes something easily damaged, not necessarily broken into pieces.
breakable
Means capable of breaking, without implying deliberate design or fragmentation.