Final answer:
FRAGILE means delicate, easily broken, or vulnerable. It can refer to physical objects or situations, systems, or states that are vulnerable or unstable.
Step-by-step explanation:
FRAGILE means delicate, easily broken, or vulnerable. It can refer to physical objects that can easily break or to situations, systems, or states that are vulnerable or unstable.
For example, in the context of the Fragile States Index mentioned in the question, a fragile state refers to a government or state that is unable to perform essential functions like maintaining law and order, building infrastructure, and guaranteeing basic services to its citizens.
Some synonyms for fragile include delicate, breakable, brittle, and sensitive.