malingerer
What does "malingerer" mean?
A malingerer is someone who deliberately feigns, exaggerates, or induces physical or mental illness in order to avoid work, responsibilities, or obligations. The mental image is of someone pretending to be bedridden or injured while secretly feeling perfectly fine, often to dodge a difficult task or duty. This term is most commonly used in medical, legal, or military contexts. It carries a strong connotation of dishonesty and lack of integrity. You would likely hear it used by a supervisor or a doctor to describe someone they suspect is "faking it" to get out of their duties.
"malingerer" in conversation
Workplace suspicion
John has called in sick every Friday this month.
John has called in sick every Friday this month.
I suspect he's just a malingerer trying to extend his weekends.
I suspect he's just a malingerer trying to extend his weekends.
Used here to express professional frustration regarding suspected absenteeism.
Military medical check
There is no clinical evidence for your back pain.
There is no clinical evidence for your back pain.
He’s a known malingerer; he does this every time we have a field exercise.
He’s a known malingerer; he does this every time we have a field exercise.
Highlights the use of the word in contexts where duty is mandatory.
"malingerer" in a sentence
The boss fired the employee after discovering he was a malingerer.
The boss fired the employee after discovering he was a malingerer.
Medical staff are trained to identify the subtle signs of a malingerer.
Medical staff are trained to identify the subtle signs of a malingerer.
His reputation as a malingerer preceded him, making it difficult for anyone to take his complaints seriously.
His reputation as a malingerer preceded him, making it difficult for anyone to take his complaints seriously.
