sickness

noun

sick·​ness ˈsik-nəs How to pronounce sickness (audio)
1
a
: ill health : illness
b
: a disordered, weakened, or unsound condition
2
: a specific disease
3

Examples of sickness in a Sentence

He died from an unknown sickness. she was plagued by sickness most of her adult life
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.
Minor gastrointestinal discomfort is probably the most common symptom; however, pathogens that may cause only minor sickness in some people may cause serious conditions or death in others, especially in the very young, old, or those with weakened immune systems. Jalen Williams, Freep.com, 18 July 2025 The medical group provides urgent care, primary care, telemedicine, women’s and men’s health services and specialized programs for weight loss, as well as IV infusions for people needing nutrients, hydration or recovery from sickness and hangovers, its news release said. Angela Palermo, Idaho Statesman, 17 July 2025 How parametric insurance works Unlike traditional indemnity insurance, which only pays out when sickness is proven through medical documentation, parametric insurance doesn't require filing a claim. Jyoti Thakur, NPR, 16 July 2025 Motion sickness Motion sickness occurs when your eyes, ears, body, and brain can’t agree on what the hell is going on. Rachel Nall, SELF, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sickness

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of sickness was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sickness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sickness. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

sickness

noun
sick·​ness ˈsik-nəs How to pronounce sickness (audio)
1
: ill health : illness
2
: a specific disease : malady
3

Medical Definition

sickness

noun
sick·​ness ˈsik-nəs How to pronounce sickness (audio)
1
: the condition of being ill : ill health
2
: a specific disease
3
: nausea

More from Merriam-Webster on sickness

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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