Infirmed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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infirmed
[ɪnˈfɜːrmd ]
Definition
health status
The term 'infirmed' refers to a state of being weak or ill, particularly because of age or a chronic condition. It often describes individuals who are suffering from physical debilities or who have been rendered feeble or frail by sickness or infirmity. While 'infirmed' is less commonly used in modern English, it carries a historical connotation related to vulnerability often associated with older adults. This term may be used in medical or caregiving contexts to indicate someone who requires assistance due to their compromised health.
Synonyms
disabled, feeble, frail, weak.
Examples of usage
- The infirmed patients needed special care.
- Infirmed individuals often struggle with daily activities.
- The infirmed elderly require regular check-ups.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Healthcare
- Infirmity can refer to long-term health issues that affect one's ability to perform daily activities.
- With an aging population, the number of individuals described as infirmed has increased, impacting healthcare systems worldwide.
- Care for infirmed individuals often involves rehabilitation, support services, and adaptations to living environments.
Cultural Perspectives
- Cultural views of infirmity vary; in some societies, it is seen as a natural part of aging, while in others, it may carry stigma.
- In literature and media, infirmity has been used to evoke sympathy or illustrate the struggles against adversity.
- Campaigns for disability rights often focus on redefining societal perceptions of those who are infirmed.
Psychology
- Being infirmed can lead to psychological issues such as depression and anxiety, stemming from loss of independence.
- Support systems, including family, friends, and community resources, are crucial for mental well-being among infirmed individuals.
- Coping strategies like positive thinking and engaging in hobbies can help mitigate the emotional impact of infirmity.
Literature
- In literature, characters who are infirmed often symbolize vulnerability, enriching themes of resilience and human connection.
- Famous authors like Charles Dickens and Virginia Woolf depicted infirmity not just as a physical state but a condition of the spirit.
- Shakespeare often explored themes of human frailty, illustrating the universality of being infirmed through various characters.
Origin of 'infirmed'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'infirmed' comes from the Latin word 'infirmus', meaning weak or frail.
- It entered English in the 15th century, originally used in religious texts to describe physical and moral weakness.
- Related words like 'infirmity' emphasize both physical and mental limitations.
The word 'infirmed' comes from the Latin 'infirmus', meaning weak or feeble, which is a combination of 'in-' meaning not, and 'firmus' meaning strong. Over the centuries, this term evolved in English usage, reflecting the changing perceptions of health, disability, and aging. Historically, many societies viewed infirmity not just as a physical state but also intertwined with social status, often relegating infirmed individuals to positions of dependency. In the past, the infirmed may have relied heavily on family or community support, as medical care was less accessible. The connotation associated with the word has shifted as more inclusive language has emerged, but it still evokes a sense of compassion towards those who are vulnerable due to health issues.