NYT Dictionary

FOIBLE

/ˈfɔɪbəl/
NounAdjectiveFOI-blefoi-ble · 2 syllablesGrade 10

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2021, 2022, 2025, 2026

Meaning

A quirk, idiosyncrasy, frailty, or mannerism; an unusual habit that is slightly strange or silly.

Etymology

Origin: French

1640–50, from Early Modern French foible (“feeble”) (contemporary French faible). Doublet of feeble.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

faultidiosyncrasymannerismblemishbugcapricecatchcrackdefectdefection

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 3 recorded puzzles:

Join the Spelling Bee Community

Get solving strategies, rare word lists, and puzzle tips in your inbox every week.