# maim

/ˈmeɪm/ (US) · /mˈeɪm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/maim
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

to hurt a person or animal very badly, so that part of the body is badly damaged for life.

For teachers: to inflict serious physical injury that causes permanent loss of function or disfigurement, especially loss of a limb or sense.

## Examples

- The trap can maim small wild animals.
- The explosion maimed several workers and left the factory closed for months.
- Landmines continue to maim civilians long after conflicts end, leaving villages to care for survivors with life-changing injuries.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

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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.