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Ailment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜ท
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ailment

[หˆeษชlmษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

Ailment is a mild sickness that is not very serious.

Synonyms

disorder, illness, malady.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ailment

Typically used to describe minor, non-life-threatening illnesses or health problems.

  • She's been suffering from a minor ailment that causes her occasional discomfort.
  • The doctor prescribed some medication for his stomach ailment.
illness

A more general term that can describe any condition that makes you feel unwell, from minor to serious.

  • He missed work due to illness.
  • The spread of seasonal illnesses affects attendance at schools.
malady

An old-fashioned or formal term that typically refers to serious or widespread health problems. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • The country is suffering from a malady of corruption.
  • He succumbed to a mysterious malady that baffled doctors.
disorder

Often used in a medical context to denote a more persistent health issue, which can be physical or psychological.

  • She was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder.
  • Mental health disorders require specialized treatment.

Examples of usage

  • He was suffering from a minor ailment.
  • The doctor prescribed some medication to treat her ailment.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Ailment can also refer to a minor problem or difficulty.

Synonyms

difficulty, issue, problem.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ailment

Used to describe a minor illness or health problem.

  • He has a minor ailment that requires rest.
  • Common ailments like colds and headaches can be treated at home.
problem

Typically refers to something more significant or serious that requires resolution.

  • We have a major problem with the plumbing.
  • The company is facing financial problems.
issue

Used for a situation that needs to be addressed or discussed, often less severe than a 'problem'.

  • There's an issue with the software that needs fixing.
  • This issue came up during the meeting yesterday.
difficulty

Appropriate for describing challenges or obstacles in accomplishing a task.

  • She had some difficulty completing the project on time.
  • There was a difficulty in understanding the instructions.

Examples of usage

  • Financial ailments can cause stress and anxiety.
  • Her biggest ailment was lack of motivation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • In traditional Chinese medicine, ailments are often viewed as imbalances in the body's energy, or 'Qi'.
  • Many cultures have unique herbal remedies specifically designed to treat common ailments passed down through generations.
  • Folklore from various societies often links certain ailments to supernatural causes, representing a blend of medicine and mysticism.

Medical Understanding

  • Ailments can range from minor issues like colds to serious conditions like chronic diseases, highlighting the spectrum of health.
  • The World Health Organization defines health as more than just the absence of ailments, emphasizing overall well-being.
  • Recognizing emotional ailments is crucial; conditions like anxiety or depression are often as impactful as physical ailments.

Literature and Art

  • Many classic novels explore characters' ailments as a way to reflect their internal struggles, contributing to character development.
  • Famous paintings, like Edvard Munch's 'The Scream', illustrate emotional ailments, showcasing how art captures complex human experiences.
  • In poetry, poets often use ailments as metaphors for deeper emotional or existential issues, allowing for profound artistic expression.

Psychology

  • Research shows that emotional ailments can manifest as physical symptoms, demonstrating the mind-body connection.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy often addresses the psychological aspects of ailments, helping individuals manage symptoms effectively.
  • Stress and anxiety can exacerbate physical ailments, highlighting the importance of mental health in overall wellness.

Origin of 'ailment'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old French word 'alemant', meaning to make ill.
  • It traces back to the Latin 'aegritudine', which means sickness or sorrow, showing a long history of language evolution.
  • In Middle English, people used 'ailment' to refer to both physical and emotional discomfort.

The word 'ailment' has been in use since the late 16th century, derived from the Old French word 'alimenter' meaning 'nourish'. Over time, the meaning shifted to refer to minor sickness or problems.

See also: ail, ailing.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,971, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.