Dengue: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'dengue' is believed to have originated from the Swahili phrase 'Ka-denga pepo,' which translates to 'cramp-like seizures caused by the wind.' This phrase referred to the disease's debilitating symptoms in the late 18th century, when dengue fever was first described. The disease was officially recognized as a distinct entity by the early 19th century, particularly in the Caribbean and Latin America. As medical understanding evolved, dengue became associated with the mosquito vectors that transmit the virus. By the 20th century, dengue was increasingly documented in global health literature, establishing it as a significant public health challenge due to rapid urbanization and increased mosquito populations. Today, with the recognition of four serotypes of the dengue virus, the focus has shifted towards prevention and vaccination to combat this infectious disease.

Positioned at #24,901, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

• ...
• 24898 spectroscope
• 24899 marauding
• 24900 gory
• 24901 dengue
• 24902 incubating
• 24903 bangs
• 24904 apposite
• ...