Anility is a term that is not commonly used in everyday language. It is a word that is often used in medical and psychological contexts to describe the state of being senile or showing signs of mental decline due to old age. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of anility, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Anility is defined as the state of being senile or showing signs of mental decline due to old age. It can also refer to the quality of being foolish, silly, or lacking in judgment.
Origin
The word anility comes from the Latin word “anilis,” which means “old woman.” This term was originally used to describe the mental decline that was often associated with old age, particularly in women.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, anility is defined as “the quality or state of being senile or foolish.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the state or quality of being foolish, silly, or lacking in judgment.”
Associations
Anility is often associated with old age and the mental decline that can come with it. It is also associated with forgetfulness, confusion, and a lack of mental clarity.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of anility include senility, dotage, feebleness, infirmity, and mental decline.
Antonyms
Antonyms of anility include mental acuity, sharpness, clarity, and wisdom.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as anility include “anilism,” which is the state of being senile, and “anile,” which means “like an old woman.”
Example Sentences
- The anility of the old man was evident in his forgetfulness and confusion.
- The nurse noticed signs of anility in the elderly patient, such as forgetfulness and difficulty communicating.
- The professor’s anility was evident in his rambling lectures and lack of focus.
- The family was concerned about their grandmother’s anility and sought medical advice.
- The comedian’s jokes were criticized for their anility and lack of originality.