Malady/ˈmælədi/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Health Context Use 'malady' when discussing health issues, especially those of a less certain nature. His persistent cough was a malady that puzzled the specialists. Pro Tip 2/3Chronic Illness 'Malady' is often used to describe chronic or serious conditions, rather than minor illnesses. She has battled a malady for years with courage. Pro Tip 3/3Literary Tone 'Malady' can be used to introduce a more literary or formal tone compared to 'sickness'. The novel's hero was stricken by a mysterious malady.