Learn the meaning, pronunciation and usage of the word illness, a noun for the state of being physically or mentally ill. Find out the difference between illness and disease, and see related words and collocations. Digging Deeper: The Meanings of Illness and Sickness The term 'illness' generally refers to a medical condition, either short-term or long-term, affecting an individual's physical or mental health. Examples include migraines, flu, or even mental health issues that may require professional help. On the other hand, 'sickness' is a broader term that could refer to a medical or non-medical condition. For instance, morning sickness in pregnant women or a feeling of discomfort in certain ... Health encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease, as defined by the World Health Organization. Whereas, illness specifically refers to a state where there is a physical or mental disturbance involving symptoms and treatment. In humans, disease is often used more broadly to refer to any condition that causes pain, dysfunction, distress, social problems, or death to the person affected, or similar problems for those in contact with the person.
