Sicken/ˈsɪkən/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Strong Disgust Use 'sicken' to express intense negative emotions towards something morally disturbing or repulsive. The corruption scandals really sicken the public. Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal Sickness Remember, sicken in this context doesn't mean becoming physically ill, but feeling deep contempt. He is sickened by the waste he sees around him. Pro Tip 3/3Intensity Matters Use 'sicken' for impact; it's much stronger than just saying something 'bothers' or 'annoys' you. Stories of animal cruelty sicken me to my core.