Brittle (adjective)

1. Easily broken or fractured.
2. Lacking flexibility or resilience; tending to snap or break easily.
3. Not firm or stable; weak or uncertain.

Origin:

The term "brittle" originated in the late 16th century and is derived from the middle english word "britel" meaning "easily broken". it has been used to describe something that is easily broken or fractured since then.

Examples:

1. The brittle branches snapped under the weight of the snow.
2. Her brittle demeanor made it clear that she was not in the mood for jokes.
3. The brittle structure of the building made it unsafe and it had to be demolished.
4. The brittle material was unsuitable for construction, it needed to be replaced.
5. Her brittle confidence made her vulnerable to criticism, she needed to build it up.