What does sicker mean?
“Sicker” is the comparative form of the adjective “sick,” meaning more unwell than before or, informally, more disgusting, offensive, or morally objectionable than something else. In medical and everyday descriptions of illness, it commonly follows verbs such as “feel,” “become,” “grow,” and “get,” as in “She felt sicker after taking the medication.” The second sense is especially associated with informal criticism: a plan, excuse, joke, or piece of writing may be called “sicker” to express disgust or contempt. Although “sicker” is often merely a regular comparative ending, the parallel form “sickening” is usually an adjective describing something that causes revulsion, while “sickeningly” functions as an adverb. Recognising both meanings of “sicker” helps distinguish statements about worsening illness from more figurative judgments about something offensive.
More affected by illness or physical weakness than before.
"The patient became sicker while recovering in hospital."
The usual comparative form is “sicker,” with “sickest” serving as the superlative.
More disgusting, offensive, or morally objectionable than something else.
"That was a sicker excuse than the first one."
This figurative sense is informal and often expresses strong disapproval or contempt.
Sicker can mean more unwell—or, in informal English, far more repulsive.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sicker come from?
The adjective “sick” comes from Middle English and ultimately from Old English siec, meaning “ill” or “unwell.” It belongs to a Germanic word family that includes Dutch ziek and German siech. The modern comparative “sicker” was formed by adding the regular English comparative suffix “-er” to “sick.”
Related word forms
How sicker is actually used
The health-related sense is standard in formal and informal English alike. The sense meaning “more disgusting or objectionable” is common in informal speech and may express strong disapproval.
Easily confused with sicker
“Sicker” is the comparative of “sick,” while “sickening” describes something that causes disgust or revulsion.