Infirm Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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infirm
[ˈɪnfəːm ]
Definitions
health condition
Not physically or mentally strong, especially through age or illness.
Synonyms
debilitated, frail, weak.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| infirm |
Use when describing someone, typically elderly, who has chronic health issues or general physical weakness. Often refers to long-term conditions.
|
| weak |
Use in general situations to describe someone or something lacking in strength or power. It can refer to physical, emotional, or moral strength.
|
| frail |
Use when describing someone who is physically weak and delicate, often due to old age or illness. It implies vulnerability and fragility.
|
| debilitated |
Use when referring to someone who has been weakened due to a serious illness or injury. It often implies a temporary state of weakness.
|
Examples of usage
- She had been infirm for many years.
- His infirm grandmother needed constant care.
- The infirm patient was unable to walk without assistance.
person
A person who is physically weak or frail.
Synonyms
debilitated, invalid, sickly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| infirm |
Used to describe someone who is physically weak due to old age or illness.
|
| invalid |
Usually a formal term for someone who is permanently sick or disabled. It can have a slight negative or outdated tone.
|
| sickly |
Describes someone who is frequently ill or appears to be unhealthy. It can carry a somewhat negative connotation.
|
| debilitated |
Refers to a state of physical weakness often due to chronic illness, serious injury, or medical treatment.
|
Examples of usage
- The infirm often require special care.
- He visited the infirm at the nursing home.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health & Medicine
- Historically, infirmity often referred to age-related illnesses, highlighting society's view on the elderly.
- Infirmity can encompass both physical ailments and mental health issues, showing the broad impact of health on individuals.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have various attitudes toward infirmity; some see it as a natural stage of life, while others may stigmatize it.
- Art and literature often explore themes of infirmity, reflecting the struggles faced by those who are not well, as seen in many classic novels.
Psychology
- Psychological impacts of being infirm can include feelings of isolation, anxiety, or depression, showing how health affects mental well-being.
- Support networks and community services play a crucial role in assisting those who are infirm, helping combat loneliness.
Social Issues
- Infirmity raises important discussions about care systems, accessibility, and the rights of those who are not in good health.
- As populations age globally, the concept of infirmity is increasingly relevant in shaping health policies and societal values.
Origin of 'infirm'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'infirmus,' meaning weak or not strong, combining 'in-' (not) with 'firmus' (strong).
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally used to describe physical conditions.
The word 'infirm' originated from the Latin word 'infirmus', which means 'weak' or 'feeble'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe someone who is not physically or mentally strong, especially due to age or illness.
See also: confirm, firm, firmament, firming, firmly, firmness, firms, unfirmly.