Curable: meaning, definitions and examples

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curable

 

[ ˈkjʊərəbl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

The term 'curable' refers to a medical condition or disease that can be completely treated and resolved. It indicates that there is a viable treatment that restores health, leading to the cessation of symptoms or eradication of the underlying cause. Curable conditions contrast with those that are chronic or incurable, which may be managed but not completely eliminated. Determining whether a condition is curable may depend on various factors, including the stage of the disease, the specific treatment options available, and the individual patient's response to treatment.

Synonyms

recoverable, remediable, treatable.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor assured her that her illness was curable.
  • Many infectious diseases are now considered curable with appropriate treatment.
  • Early detection can make some cancers curable.
  • With new advances in medicine, certain previously fatal diseases are now curable.

Etymology

The word 'curable' originates from the Latin word 'curabilis', which means 'to be cured'. This Latin term stems from 'cura', meaning 'care' or 'treatment'. The root underscores the concept of taking care of a patient in a medical context. The term was adopted into Middle English in the late 15th century, reflecting the evolving understanding of healthcare and the importance of treatment options in restoring health. Over the centuries, the definition has remained closely tied to the field of medicine, where 'curable' has been a key term in discussions about treatment outcomes and health recovery. As medical science progresses, the classification of various diseases as curable or incurable continues to evolve, influenced by advancements in technology and pharmacology.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,735, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.