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Congenital Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ถ
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congenital

[kษ™nหˆdส’ษ›nษชtษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

Congenital refers to a condition that is present at birth, whether inherited or caused by the environment during pregnancy. Such conditions can include physical malformations or genetic disorders. In many cases, congenital conditions may require medical intervention or monitoring throughout an individualโ€™s life.

Synonyms

hereditary, inborn, innate, native.

Examples of usage

  • He was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.
  • The clinic specializes in treating congenital disorders.
  • Congenital abnormalities can often be detected through ultrasounds.
  • Children with congenital conditions may face unique challenges.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Some congenital conditions result from genetic mutations, while others may arise from environmental factors during pregnancy.
  • Congenital heart defects are among the most common types, affecting approximately 1 in 100 babies.
  • Medical advances have significantly improved the detection and management of congenital disorders, leading to better outcomes.

Psychology

  • Research shows that congenital conditions can influence psychological development and social integration.
  • Children with congenital disabilities may face unique challenges, which can impact their self-esteem and identity.

Pop Culture

  • Films and books often depict characters with congenital differences, raising awareness and empathy among audiences.
  • TV shows like 'The Good Doctor' highlight the experiences of individuals with congenital conditions, underlining themes of acceptance and resilience.

Medicine

  • Congenital conditions are often classified into three categories: congenital malformations, chromosomal abnormalities, and genetic syndromes.
  • Prenatal care and genetic counseling can help in understanding the risk of congenital conditions in families.

Origin of 'congenital'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from Latin 'congenitus', which means 'born together' or 'to bring to life'.
  • Combines 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'genitus', meaning 'born' or 'produced'.

The word 'congenital' originates from the Latin word 'congenitus', which means 'born together' or 'to be born with'. The prefix 'con-' means 'together with', while 'genitus' comes from 'gignere', meaning 'to beget or produce'. The term started being used in English in the late 19th century to describe conditions that were present from birth. The application of the word has expanded in the medical field as understanding of genetics and prenatal development has grown. Today, 'congenital' is commonly used in medical terminology to classify various health issues that an individual is born with, distinguishing them from those acquired later in life.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,371 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.