Spanish Conversation · Level 21
90 words
Spanish word
enfermedad
Pronunciation
IPA/enfeɾmeˈðað/
Meaning
- feminine nounillness
Example
Si tienes una enfermedad, descansa.
If you have an illness, rest.
More examples
Una enfermedad contagiosa puede afectar a la familia.
A contagious illness can affect the family.
Core concept
A medical condition that impairs a person's health and normal functioning.
Common phrases
tener una enfermedad
have an illness
enfermedad contagiosa
contagious illness
enfermedad crónica
chronic illness
Similar words
malestar: General feeling of bodily discomfort or malaise, usually mild and temporary.
dolencia: Minor physical ailment or localized pain affecting a specific part of the body.
padecimiento: Chronic or persistent health condition that causes ongoing physical suffering or symptoms.
Definition in Spanish
Estado en que una persona padece una afección física o mental que altera su salud y su funcionamiento habitual.
Word origin
The noun comes from Spanish enfermo 'sick' plus the suffix -dad, and enfermo derives from Latin infirmus 'not strong' (in- 'not' + firmus 'strong').
Usage tips
- Enfermedad is used in medical or formal contexts for diagnosed or long-lasting conditions, while casual complaints are usually expressed with estar malo or by naming the symptom.