impairment

noun

im·​pair·​ment im-ˈper-mənt 

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 impairments …

—The Springfield (Massachusetts) Union-News

Examples of impairment in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Accessibility for those with mobility impairments The staff makes every effort to facilitate requests, from assistance around the hotel to arranging for the hotel’s private chauffeurs to drive you to your destination. —Kasia Dietz, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Feb. 2026

Participants were from six different geographical areas and did not have any significant prior cognitive impairment. —Akshay Syal, NBC news, 9 Feb. 2026

Without intervention, delirium increases one's risk of death and long-term cognitive impairment. —Sarah Lapidus, AZCentral.com, 7 Feb. 2026

But unlike some other disabilities or impairments, symptoms of hearing loss can appear subtle to those not experiencing it. —Hannah Silverman, Parents, 5 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above