Ail

/eɪl/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to suffer or cause to suffer pain or distress

He ails from a chronic back condition that limits his mobility.

to trouble or worry someone

What ails you that you seem so troubled today?

to be unwell or in poor health

The doctor said there’s nothing physically ailing her; it could be psychological.

Middle English 'ailen', from Old French 'aislere', based on Latin 'aestimare'.

ailing health

Experiencing chronic discomfort or illness.

to ail someone

To make someone feel discomfort or pain.

ailment

A physical disorder or illness.

ailing

Experiencing illness or disability.

To feel bad or sick

After that party, I really ailed the next day.