Adenoid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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adenoid

[หˆรฆd.ษ™.nษ”ษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical term

Adenoids are a mass of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the nasal cavity. They are part of the immune system and help to protect against infection. In children, enlarged adenoids can cause breathing difficulties and ear infections.

Synonyms

lymphoid tissue, pharyngeal tonsil.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor examined the child's adenoids during the check-up.
  • Enlarged adenoids can lead to chronic nasal obstruction.
  • Treatment for adenoid hypertrophy may involve surgery.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Health

  • Adenoids are part of the lymphatic system, which helps fight infections, especially in children.
  • Enlarged adenoids can lead to breathing problems, snoring, and sleep apnea, often requiring medical evaluation.
  • They shrink naturally during puberty, which is why most adults have smaller or no adenoids.

Education

  • Health education in schools emphasizes the importance of adenoids in immune defense, especially in young kids.
  • Learning about the role of adenoids can help children understand how their body fights off illness.
  • Doctors use diagrams and models to teach kids about their anatomy, including the role of adenoids.

Pop Culture

  • Adenoids are often referenced in comedic sketches and cartoons where children struggle with nasal voices.
  • Movies sometimes portray kids with large adenoids as quirky characters, adding humor to their nose and breathing issues.
  • Pop culture can exaggerate the effects of enlarged adenoids, making them a relatable topic for children facing similar health issues.

Science

  • Research suggests that adenoids play a role in the development of immunity during early childhood.
  • New studies are being conducted to explore how the size of adenoids affects respiratory health in children.
  • Scientists are investigating whether the removal of adenoids impacts long-term immune function.

Origin of 'adenoid'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'adenoid' comes from the Greek word 'adenoides', meaning 'gland-like'.
  • Adenoids were first described in medical texts in the 19th century when doctors began to understand their role.
  • The word 'adenoid' reflects both their shape and function, as they resemble a gland and are involved in immune responses.

The term 'adenoid' comes from the Greek word 'adenoeides', meaning 'gland-like'. The root 'aden' means 'gland' and '-oid' indicates resemblance, so the term literally means resembling a gland. Adenoids were first identified in the late 19th century as a key component of the body's immune system, particularly in children. They help in the production of antibodies and play a role in fighting off infections, especially respiratory ones. Over time, as medical understanding evolved, awareness of the complications that can arise from enlarged adenoidsโ€”such as obstructive sleep apnea and ear infectionsโ€”became apparent, leading to surgical interventions like adenoidectomy becoming more common.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,545 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.