impairment

noun

im·​pair·​ment im-ˈper-mənt How to pronounce impairment (audio)
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 impairmentsThe 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.
Aim for 7-9 hours: Anything less than 7 hours of sleep can lead to significant metabolic, cognitive, and cardiovascular impairments. Dr. Peter H. Diamandis, TIME, 4 Nov. 2024 There was also $15.9 billion in impairment charges tied in part to accelerated depreciation for Intel 7 process node manufacturing assets and goodwill impairment in the Mobileye unit. Jordan Novet, CNBC, 31 Oct. 2024 Higher levels of vitamin D in the brain were associated with 25-33% lower odds of dementia or cognitive impairment. Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 30 Oct. 2024 Yet for millions with speech impairments due to conditions like Lou Gehrig's disease or cerebral palsy, this basic function becomes a struggle. Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near impairment

Cite this Entry

“Impairment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impairment. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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