IMPAIRS Synonyms: 96 Similar and Opposite Words

impairs

verb

present tense third-person singular of impair

as in damages

to reduce the soundness, effectiveness, or perfection of already impaired by a crack, the windshield shattered upon impact with the baseball

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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 impairs Poor sleep impairs barrier function and slows the overnight repair window, and chronic sleep restriction visibly accelerates aging. —

Allison Palmer updated June 13, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 June 2026 Poor sleep impairs barrier function and accelerates visible aging. —

Allison Palmer updated June 13, Miami Herald, 13 June 2026 If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. —

Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 13 June 2026 Unfortunately, substance use impairs judgment, increases impulsivity and amplifies vulnerability to a range of other high-risk behaviors and harms. —

Beverly Kingston, The Conversation, 9 June 2026 For others still chasing results, upping spending — without substantively addressing AI strategy, governance, workforce capabilities and cross-functional collaboration — burns cash, impairs competitiveness and erodes morale. —

Noah Barsky, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026 Chronic short sleep raises blood pressure, impairs glucose metabolism and is linked to higher rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, depression and anxiety. —

Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 19 May 2026 Chronic short sleep raises blood pressure and impairs glucose metabolism, and it’s linked to higher rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and depression — each an independent longevity risk on its own. —

Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 19 May 2026 This damage impairs kidney function, preventing the proper production of urine and the elimination of metabolic wastes. —

Encyclopedia Britannica, 15 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for impairs

Verb

Dana Sue and Ronnie's strained relationship is exasperated by a fire that breaks out — accelerated by off-brand e-bikes Ronnie bought behind Dana Sue’s back and stored in their garage — and damages their house.

— Francesca Gariano, PEOPLE, 13 June 2026
Roslovic’s poor playoff showing severely damages his chances of earning an extension with the Oilers for next season and of a sizable deal elsewhere.

— Shayna Goldman, New York Times, 10 June 2026