'Impairment' definitions:

Definition of 'impairment'

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

Definition of 'Impairment'

From: GCIDE
  • Impairment \Im*pair"ment\, n. [OE. enpeirement, OF. empirement.] The state, act, or process of being impaired; injury. "The impairment of my health." --Dryden. [1913 Webster]