As a Noun: 1. The experience of having a disease or a health problem which makes you unable to work or to live normally for a period of time, particularly if it happens suddenly or lasts for only a short time. English = sickness, illness. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To suffer from a disease or a health problem which makes you unable to work or to live normally. Used particularly for problems which happen suddenly or last for only a short time. English = (be) sick, (be) ill. 2. To become or get sick, to fall ill. 3. Of acts, stories, or jokes, to deal with death, cruelty, or suffering in a frivolous way. English = (be) sick, (be) disgusting, (be) distasteful.