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
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There was no signs of impairment with any of the drivers. Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 8 June 2025 Priority is given to those on the 2024 waiting list, including homeless individuals, veterans, vulnerable populations, households with special needs, and individuals with mobility, hearing or vision impairments. Sarah Moreno, Miami Herald, 6 June 2025 The company posted a staggering $11.5 billion net loss, largely because of a $9.1 billion goodwill impairment charge that reflected the lower valuation of its linear TV networks. Todd Spangler, Variety, 5 June 2025 While the adjusted gross margin fell by 370 basis points year-over-year to 29.4%, HPE’s net income was significantly affected by a non-cash impairment charge of $1.4 billion for legacy goodwill, leading to a GAAP loss of $0.82 per share. Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Impairment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impairment. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.

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