Langimage
English

ill

|ill|

B1

/ɪl/

unwell or unfavorable

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ill' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'illr', where 'illr' meant 'bad or evil'.

Historical Evolution

'illr' transformed into the Middle English word 'ill', and eventually became the modern English word 'ill'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'bad or evil', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'sick or unwell'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a problem or misfortune.

The community faced many social ills.

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Adjective 1

not in good health; sick or unwell.

She felt ill after eating the seafood.

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Adverb 1

badly or unfavorably.

He spoke ill of his colleagues.

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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35