impairment


impairment (http://definr.com/impairment)

     n 1: the occurrence of a change for the worse [syn: damage, harm]
     2: a symptom of reduced quality or strength [syn: deterioration]
     3: the condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of
        physical or mental unfitness; "reading disability";
        "hearing impairment" [syn: disability, disablement, handicap]
     4: damage that results in a reduction of strength or quality
     5: the act of making something futile and useless (as by
        routine) [syn: stultification, deadening]