noun

infirmity

in-FUR-muh-tee/ɪnˈfɜːrməti/

Weakness or ill health of the body or mind.

Despite his infirmity, he still enjoys a short daily walk.

An elderly South Asian man with a cane moving carefully as a family member supports him, physical frailty shown with dignity.

Etymology

inLatinnot

+firmLatinstrong, firm

+ityLatinstate or quality

Infirmity names the state of being “not strong.” The underlying lack of strength applies to bodily frailty and also to mental or moral weakness, rather than only to a particular disease.

In context

JoyNews8:10

infirmity of the body weakness that he's unable to even move or obviously unable to perform the function

Judicial Brouhaha - PM Express on Joy News (6-10-15)

More examples

The infirmities of old age make everyday tasks more difficult.
Her growing infirmity means she needs help getting dressed.
The evaluation looks for signs of physical or mental infirmity.

Forms

infirmity · infirmities

infirm adjective — Physically weak or in poor health.

Similar words

frailty: Emphasizes physical weakness and vulnerability, especially in older people.
illness: Refers to sickness rather than weakness or reduced strength.
debility: Specifically stresses a loss of physical strength or energy.