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Colic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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colic

[ˈkɒlɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Colic is a term used to describe severe, often fluctuating pain that is caused by the intestine or other parts of the digestive tract undergoing spasms. It is most commonly associated with infants experiencing excessive crying due to stomach discomfort, but colic can occur in adults as well. In infants, this condition typically manifests as prolonged periods of crying and distress, often occurring in the late afternoon or evening. The exact cause of colic in infants is not well understood, though it may be linked to factors such as feeding habits, sensitivity to stimuli, or immature digestive systems.

Synonyms

abdominal pain, cramp, spasm.

Examples of usage

  • The newborn was diagnosed with colic after hours of crying.
  • The doctor suggested several remedies to alleviate the colic symptoms.
  • Many parents feel helpless when their baby suffers from colic.
  • Colic in adults can lead to significant discomfort and requires medical guidance.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Knowledge

  • Colic is often most common in babies, usually starting when they are a few weeks old and often going away by the time they're 3 to 4 months old.
  • The exact cause of colic is still not entirely understood, but it's believed to relate to digestive systems that are still developing.
  • Some studies suggest that babies with colic may be more sensitive to certain stimuli, like noise and bright lights.

Cultural Perceptions

  • Throughout history, many cultures viewed colic as a sign of a mother's inability to soothe her baby, leading to stigma and guilt.
  • In some cultures, various herbal remedies and treatments have been handed down through generations to alleviate colic symptoms.
  • Modern parenting has increased awareness about colic, promoting discussions and support among parents dealing with this common challenge.

Psychological Aspects

  • Parents of colicky babies often experience increased stress and fatigue, impacting their mental health.
  • The experience of dealing with a colicky baby can affect the parent-child bond, making understanding and support vital.
  • Awareness of colic has led psychologists to develop approaches to help parents cope with the emotional strain.

Scientific Research

  • Research shows that certain dietary changes in breastfeeding mothers can sometimes reduce colic symptoms in babies.
  • Studies are ongoing to better understand the microbiome's role in digestion and its potential link to colic in infants.
  • There has been exploration into the effectiveness of different soothing techniques, such as swaddling and movement, in alleviating colic.

Historical Origins

  • The word 'colic' comes from the Greek 'kolikos', which means 'of the colon', referring to one area where pain can occur.
  • Colic has been recognized for centuries, with Ancient Greek physicians already documenting the condition in infants.
  • In earlier times, colic was often attributed to evil spirits or bad air, showcasing how medical understanding has evolved over the years.

Origin of 'colic'

The word 'colic' originates from the Latin 'colicus', which means 'of the colon', derived from 'colon', referring to the large intestine. The term was associated with gastrointestinal pain and discomfort since ancient times. Its use can be traced back to the early 16th century in English medical texts describing abdominal pain in various contexts. Over the centuries, the understanding of colic has evolved, with distinctions made between different types such as infant colic and colic associated with digestive disorders in adults. The concept of 'colic' in modern medicine encompasses a broader range of conditions related to spasms or excessive pain in the digestive tract, indicating its progression from a specific condition to a more generalized term for severe abdominal pain.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,538, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.