Definition

A condition that causes pain or discomfort in the body or mind, often referring to a minor illness.

Example

She visited the doctor to discuss her ailment.

Conversation

I heard you weren't feeling well lately, what happened?

Yeah, I've been dealing with a minor ailment that just won't go away.

That's frustrating! Have you seen a doctor about the ailment?

Not yet, but I think I should make an appointment soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ailment → It is formed from "ail" (from Old French *aillier*, meaning to suffer or be ill) and "-ment" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating an action or resulting state). The word "ailment" refers to a state of suffering or being ill, particularly in a physical sense.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ail' as a sign of suffering or illness, and remember that 'ailment' describes a state of being unwell.

Visually Confused Words