ails

[eylz] / eɪlz /

VERB

hurt

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afflict bother

STRONG

annoy distress pain sicken trouble upset

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid help

STRONG

assist make happy please soothe

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani is hospitalized in "critical but stable condition," his spokesman said Sunday, without disclosing what ails the 81-year-old former politician.

From Barron's • May 3, 2026

Scientist that she is, Fancourt presents plenty of evidence for art as a cure to what ails us.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

Still, a strong sequel has often proved a cure for what ails Hollywood, and the Thanksgiving weekend was no exception.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 1, 2025

Neither CEO Jim Farley nor your editorial board is wrong in diagnosing what ails our skilled workforce.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025

I have to stop and rest frequently, although I know the only cure for what ails me requires continued searching.

From "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins