Definition of susceptibility

The word "susceptibility" has its roots in the Latin word "susceptibilis," meaning "capable of being received or taken up." It combines the prefix "sus-" meaning "under" or "up" and "capere" meaning "to take" or "to hold." The word evolved through Old French "susceptible" and Middle English "susceptible" before arriving at its modern form. Its original meaning focused on the ability to receive something, whether physical or abstract, like a disease, influence, or even an idea. Over time, the word acquired its current sense of being vulnerable or easily affected by something.