Im*pair" (?), v. t. [imp & p. p. Impaired (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Impairing.] [Written also empair.] [OE. empeiren, enpeiren, OF. empeirier, empirier, F. empirer, LL. impejorare; L. pref. im- in + pejorare to make worse, fr. pejor worse. Cf. Appair.]
To make worse; to diminish in quantity, value, excellence, or strength; to deteriorate; as, to impair health, character, the mind, value.
Time sensibly all things impairs.
Roscommon.
In years he seemed, but not impaired by years.
Pope.
Syn. -- To diminish; decrease; injure; weaken; enfeeble; debilitate; reduce; debase; deteriorate.
© Webster 1913.
Im*pair", v. t.
To grow worse; to deteriorate.
Milton.
© Webster 1913.
Im"pair (?), a. [F. impair uneven, L. impar; im- not + par equal.]
Not fit or appropriate.
[Obs.]
© Webster 1913.
Im*pair" (?), n.
Diminution; injury.
[Obs.]
© Webster 1913.