Impair

/ɪmˈpɛər/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To weaken or damage something, especially a function or ability.
Chronic alcohol consumption can impair mental faculties.
To make worse or less effective.
The heavy rain may impair visibility on the roads.
To cause a reduction in strength or quality.
Injury can impair an athlete's performance.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'empaïr', from 'em-' (to make) + 'pair' (harmful, defective).

Common Phrases and Expressions

impair one's capabilities
to reduce someone's abilities or effectiveness.
impairment of vision
the condition of having reduced visual function.

Related Words

impairment
the state of being damaged or weakened.
damaged
having been harmed or damaged.
diminution
the process of diminishing or reducing.

Slang Meanings

to mess up
Don't impair the plans we made.
to screw up
He really impaired the project with his mistakes.