The quality of being easily broken or cracked. The brittleness of the glass made it unsuitable for use in high-impact areas.
A tendency to break or snap easily under stress or pressure. The brittleness of the material was a concern for engineers designing the new bridge.
A fragile or tense quality in a person's manner, voice, or emotions that suggests vulnerability to collapse. There was a brittleness in her laugh that hinted at hidden sorrow.