ClimateAugust 16, 2026

malaises

muh-LAY-ziz

Definition

A general feeling of discomfort, illness, or uneasiness whose exact cause is often difficult to identify.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French words 'mal' (bad) and 'aise' (ease), it literally translates to 'bad ease' or discomfort. It entered English in the 18th century to describe vague physical or mental malaise.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the various health conditions that can be triggered or worsened by extreme heat, emphasizing how heat acts as a silent, underlying stressor on the body.

The summer Britain realised climate change was real – and has consequences

Read the full article ↗

The London Economic

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