impairment

n 1: the occurrence of a change for the worse [syn: {damage}, {harm}]

2: a symptom of reduced quality or strength [syn: {deterioration}]

3: the condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of

physical or mental unfitness [syn: {disability}, {disablement},

{handicap}]

4: damage that results in a reduction of strength or quality

5: the act of making something futile and useless (as by

routine) [syn: {stultification}, {deadening}]