Illness

/ˈɪl.nəs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a condition of being ill or unwell, often characterized by specific symptoms and signs.

His illness kept him bed-ridden for several weeks.

a disease or period of sickness affecting the body or mind.

She was diagnosed with a chronic illness that required long-term care.

a departure from a state of health.

The doctor explained that the illness was treatable with medication.

a physical or mental condition that is not normal.

Mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.

a state of ill health.

He did not let his childhood illness hinder his ambitions.

Middle English 'illnes', from Old English 'ilnys', meaning 'badness, ill health'.

illness prevention

Measures taken to prevent disease or maintain health.

chronic illness

A long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured.

mental illness

A condition that affects a person's thinking, feeling, or behavior.

disease

A particular abnormal condition, a disruption of normal functioning.

sickness

A condition that a person experiences due to an illness.

disorder

A disruption of the systematic functioning or activity of a body part.

Bug

I caught a bug and had to skip work.

Under the weather

I’ve been feeling a bit under the weather lately.