1.
weak; flimsy; limp; wobbly
Describes something lacking firmness or strength, whether a physical object that bends easily or a person whose body has gone limp from exhaustion or shock.
An onomatopoeic/mimetic word (gitaigo) describing something that lacks firmness or strength. Can describe both physical objects (flimsy, bendy) and people's physical state (weak-kneed, wobbly).
Usage
- へなへなになる: to go limp, to become weak
- へなへなと + verb: in a weak, wobbly manner (adverbial use)
- へなへなの/な + noun: flimsy, weak (adjectival use)
- Often used humorously or to express sudden loss of strength
Common collocations
- 足がへなへなになる: legs go weak
- へなへなと崩れる: to collapse weakly
- へなへなと座り込む: to sink down weakly
- へなへなの文字: wobbly, shaky handwriting