# ailing

/ˈeɪɫɪŋ/ (US) · /ˈeɪlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ailing
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

experiencing poor health or having serious problems. You can use it to describe a sick person or a business that is failing.

For teachers: experiencing poor health or persistent illness; experiencing significant financial or operational difficulties. Often used to describe institutions, economies, or physical bodies in a state of decline.

## Examples

- The government is trying to help the ailing economy.
- He spent the summer at home caring for his ailing grandmother.
- The merger was seen as a final attempt to rescue the ailing car manufacturer from total bankruptcy after years of falling sales and outdated designs.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often appears in political or financial journalism.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.