IMPAIRMENT Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

impairment

noun

Definition of impairment

as in disability

a condition in which a part of your body or mind is damaged and does not work well Her mother had a hearing impairment that had become worse with age.

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of impairment It is also linked to type 2 diabetes and cognitive impairment. — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 25 Sep. 2026 At its worst, cognitive impairment can be a horrible, life-altering disease for patient and loved ones. — Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 23 Sep. 2026 What deputies say happened The arresting deputy reported several signs of possible impairment, including bloodshot and watery eyes, slurred speech and difficulty maintaining his balance. — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 22 Sep. 2026 Speed and impairment are not factors in this crash and no charges are pending, according to the sheriff's office. — Staff, Cincinnati Enquirer, 18 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for impairment

Recent Examples of Synonyms for impairment

Noun

For conditions that do not show up in the databases, states can require a doctor's certification, a disability award letter or other proof.

— ABC News, ABC News, 26 Sep. 2026
For conditions that do not show up in the databases, states can require a doctor’s certification, a disability award letter or other proof.

— Geoff Mulvihill, Fortune, 26 Sep. 2026

Definition of disability

Noun

Still, despite Kristin’s injury and Rob’s ridiculousness, the tribe wants to vote Eric.

— Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 1 Oct. 2026
Heatwaves drive heatstroke, dehydration, and other health conditions; rising air pollution from haze causes respiratory conditions; floods and natural disasters cause injury while disrupting the day-to-day operations of hospitals and clinics.

— Mitch New, Fortune, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of injury

Noun

These can cause severe scarring or disablement and may lead to amputations.

— Jordan King, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025
Playing Arnie, the younger brother to Gilbert (Johnny Depp), DiCaprio doesn’t permit his character to be a simple, adorable variation on disablement.

— Tim Grierson, Vulture, 26 Sep. 2025

Definition of disablement

Noun

The suit claims damages of false imprisonment, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

— Theresa Clift, Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 2026
The Sonoma County institution’s financial troubles reflect broader pressures on California wine, including declining demand, Canadian boycotts and wildfire damage.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of damage

Browse Nearby Words

impairing

impairment

impairments

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Style

“Impairment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/impairment. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of impairment

noun

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