impair
verb (used with object)
to make or cause to become worse; diminish in ability, value, excellence, etc.; weaken or damage.
impairs
-
present tense formof impair (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Abdominal obesity reduces circulating vitamin D, and that deficiency impairs the immune system, exacerbating the chronic inflammation caused by excess fat and drastically increasing the risk of mortality," Alexandre explains to Agência FAPESP.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 14, 2026
This damage impairs the ability of nerves to carry electrical messages from the brain to the rest of the body - including those needed for the precise control of muscles needed to walk.
From BBC ● Jul. 22, 2026
High blood sugar impairs immune function and narrows vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood, making it harder for skin to heal.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 14, 2026
That may or may not come to pass, but how we behave around others either impairs or enhances our reputation.
From MarketWatch ● Apr. 7, 2026
This blindness impairs us in every act of communication.
From "The Sense of Style" by Steven Pinker
