impair
/ɪmˈpɛə/
Group 17Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To weaken or damage, especially a human faculty or function GRE
Example in Context
The report concluded that chronic sleep deprivation significantly impairs cognitive function and decision-making ability.
Synonyms
damageweakenharm
Etymology
To reduce effectiveness or make something less complete.
- in- (Latin) — not
- parare (Latin) — to make ready
Memory Aid
🦾Sounds like “impair”
A robot that IMPAIRS its own ability by trying to play the piano with a broken ARM!
Visual Association
🔧A mechanic trying to fix a car with a wrench that keeps breaking, leaving the car worse off.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “impair” mean on the GRE?
impair (verb) means “To weaken or damage, especially a human faculty or function”. The report concluded that chronic sleep deprivation significantly impairs cognitive function and decision-making ability.
How to remember “impair” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “impair” sounds like “impair”. A robot that IMPAIRS its own ability by trying to play the piano with a broken ARM!
What are synonyms for “impair”?
Common synonyms: damage, weaken, harm.