ailment

American  

[eyl-muhnt] / ˈeɪl mənt /

noun

1. a physical disorder or illness, especially of a minor or chronic nature.

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ailment British  

/ ˈeɪlmənt /

noun

1. a slight but often persistent illness

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Etymology

Origin of ailment

First recorded in 1700–10; ail + -ment

Example Sentences

“America is committed to defending Greenland, and that begins by ensuring its people are defended against basic illnesses and ailments.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The longer he spent recording guitar parts for “Megadeth,” the more his ailment interfered with his playing.

From Los Angeles Times

Glanville had been struggling for the last few years with a mysterious ailment that caused recurring facial swelling, speech impairment and the loss of teeth, leaving her reluctant to go out in public.

From Los Angeles Times

At Shanghai's "Niang Qing", a TCM doctor in a white coat diagnoses customers' physical conditions based on the pulse readings, before a mixologist crafts custom drinks incorporating the herbs and roots prescribed for their ailments.

From Barron's

Although Nancy Guthrie is of sound mind, family have said she has physical ailments and uses a pacemaker.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ache
• condition
• disease
• disorder
• flu
• illness
• malady
• syndrome