illness

noun

ill·​ness ˈil-nəs How to pronounce illness (audio)
1
b
: an unhealthy condition of body or mind
2
obsolete

Examples of illness in a Sentence

Her body was not able to defend itself against illness. Hundreds of soldiers died from illness and hunger. He showed no signs of illness. Scientists have not yet found a cure for this illness. cancer, diabetes, and other illnesses She died at the age of 60 after a brief illness.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Health experts said that could deter more Americans from receiving Covid shots and routine immunizations against various diseases that have for decades saved millions of lives and prevented crippling illnesses. Annika Kim Constantino, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2024 With chronic illness, little moments like these become milestones. Alana Kaufman, TIME, 4 Nov. 2024 While no illnesses have been reported, officials urge consumers to discard the products or return them for refunds. David Faris, Newsweek, 3 Nov. 2024 In June, four Kansas City Royals fans were hospitalized for heat illness during an afternoon home game. Ellen Cushing, The Atlantic, 2 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for illness 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1500, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of illness was circa 1500

Dictionary Entries Near illness

Cite this Entry

“Illness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/illness. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

illness

noun
ill·​ness ˈil-nəs How to pronounce illness (audio)
1
: an unhealthy condition of body or mind
2

Medical Definition

illness

noun
ill·​ness ˈil-nəs How to pronounce illness (audio)
: an unhealthy condition of body or mind : sickness

More from Merriam-Webster on illness

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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