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Definitions

illness

[il-nis] / ˈɪl nɪs /
NOUN
disease; bad health
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ailment breakdown collapse disability disorder disturbance flu ill health malady relapse seizure sickness syndrome virus
STRONG
affliction attack bug complaint confinement convalescence dose fit indisposition infirmity malaise prostration
WEAK
ailing diseasedness failing health poor health unhealth what's going around
Antonyms
STRONGEST
health order
STRONG
aid good health healthiness
WEAK
well-being wellness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Law firm Irwin Mitchell established the dad-of-four's exposure to asbestos and subsequent illness was linked to his work as a joiner in schools in Kirklees years earlier.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

New research from NYU Langone Health suggests that this simple measurement may do more than reflect current illness.

From Science Daily • Apr. 22, 2026

Without it, they face a higher risk of severe illness.

From Salon • Apr. 22, 2026

President Donald Trump signs a directive to accelerate FDA review of psychedelic drugs for serious mental illness.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

Then she was killed, or she succumbed to illness, or, in any case, she died.

From "The Mona Lisa Vanishes" by Nicholas Day