plural impairments
Synonyms of impairment
: 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 impairments …—The 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.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the driver acted intentionally, or whether a medical emergency, impairment or another factor caused the deadly crash. — Brittany Miller , Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 2026 Investigators have ruled out impairment as a factor in the crash. — Jennifer McRae, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026 Researchers are now using optogenetics in attempts to restore sight in people with visual impairment. — Karl Deisseroth, The Conversation, 15 Oct. 2026 Studies have found that weight training may help preserve brain health and might even be linked to slight improvements in memory in patients with mild cognitive impairment (in addition to all its benefits for your bones). — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 14 Oct. 2026 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 27 Oct. 2026.

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