impairment impairment /ˌɪmˈpɛrmənt/

noun

1. () The occurrence of a change for the worse  ( impairment , harm , damage )
   the occurrence of a change for the worse
     The storm caused severe damage to the houses and infrastructure.
   The storm caused severe damage to the houses and infrastructure.
   
2. The act of making something futile and useless (as by routine)  ( constipation , deadening , impairment , stultification )
   the act of making something futile and useless (as by routine)
   
3. Damage that results in a reduction of strength or quality  ( impairment )
   damage that results in a reduction of strength or quality
   
4. The condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness  ( disablement , impairment , handicap , disability )
   the condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness
    Reading disability
   reading disability
    Hearing impairment
   hearing impairment
   
   
5. A symptom of reduced quality or strength  ( impairment , deterioration )
   a symptom of reduced quality or strength