impairment

noun

im·​pair·​ment im-ˈper-mənt How to pronounce impairment (audio)
plural impairments
: the act of impairing something or the state or condition of being impaired : diminishment or loss of function or ability
… it does not help reverse the impairment of cognitive activity caused by diazepam …Corby Kummer
Trichloroethylene has been classified by EPA as a probable human carcinogen, although its primary effect is impairment of the central nervous system.Chemical & Engineering News
Persons with hearing impairments can now get information about local parks and their facilities by calling the recently installed TDD phone numbers within the Parks Department.Maryland Magazine
Studies show that roughly 11 percent of all kindergarteners have speech or language impairmentsThe Springfield (Massachusetts) Union-News

Examples of impairment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The company recorded an impairment charge of $15,678 related to certain patent applications. Quartz Bot, Quartz, 13 Dec. 2024 The sheriff's office said no impairment is suspected and all parties are cooperating with law enforcement. Drake Bentley, Journal Sentinel, 12 Dec. 2024 Beef liver also contains a lot of vitamin E—but for those who prefer something a little, um, intense, dandelion leaves also contain a lot of vitamin E. Vitamin C for clear lenses Cataracts are one of the main causes of visual impairment worldwide. Maria Berentzen, Vogue, 12 Dec. 2024 Authorities did not release his name and are investigating whether impairment played a role in the collision. Skylar Heisey, The Arizona Republic, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for impairment 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of impairment was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near impairment

Cite this Entry

“Impairment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impairment. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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