Unwellness

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ÊŒnˈwÉ›l.nɪs/, /ÊŒnˈwÉ›l.nÉ™s/

Full definition of unwellness

Noun

1. The state or characteristic of being unwell; a feeling of slight to moderate sickliness.
• 1887, Charles Darwin, The Autobiography of Charles Darwin, ch. 5:During the three years and eight months whilst we resided in London, I did less scientific work, though I worked as hard as I possibly could, than during any other equal length of time in my life. This was owing to frequently recurring unwellness, and to one long and serious illness.

Usage notes

"Unwellness" denotes a state of being ill, but tends to suggest a lesser degree of ailment than would be indicated by the terms "illness" or "sickness".