PsychologyJuly 4, 2026
infirmity
/ɪnˈfɜːrmɪti/
Definition
A physical or mental weakness, illness, or state of being diseased.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word 'infirmitas', meaning 'weakness' or 'frailty'. It entered Middle English through the Old French 'infirmite' to describe lack of strength, whether physical or moral.
In the news
The article uses the term to differentiate the World Health Organization’s broad definition of health from the mere absence of disease. It highlights that true well-being goes beyond simply not being in a state of illness or infirmity.
Mental illness, mental health, and mental well-being - npj Mental Health Research
Read the full article ↗Nature