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.