1
: easily affected, influenced, or harmed by something
The virus can infect susceptible individuals.
—often + toHe is very susceptible to colds. [=he catches colds easily]
a surface highly susceptible to scratches
He is susceptible to flattery.
2
formal
: capable of being affected by a specified action or process
—+ of
a contract that is susceptible of modification [=a contract that can be modified]
Cite this Entry
“Susceptible.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/susceptible. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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