impair
UK: ɪmˈpeə | US: ɪmˈper
vt. to weaken or damage something, especially a human faculty or function
vt. to reduce the quality, strength, or value of something
impair = im<not> + pair<make equal>
- im<not>: A prefix derived from Latin in-, meaning "not" or "opposite of."
- pair<make equal>: From Old French empeirier, meaning "to make worse," which traces back to Latin peiorare ("to make worse"), from peior ("worse").
Etymology Origin:
The word "impair" entered English via Old French empeirier, rooted in Latin peior ("worse"). The prefix im- (a variant of in-) negates the root pair, originally tied to the idea of worsening or making unequal. Over time, "impair" evolved to broadly signify weakening or damaging functionality, retaining its core logic of deviation from a balanced or optimal state.
Loud noise can impair your hearing over time.
The accident impaired his ability to walk.
Lack of sleep may impair cognitive function.
The scandal impaired the company's reputation.
Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction speed.