Diseases Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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diseases
[dɪˈziːzɪz ]
Definition
health
A disorder of structure or function in a human, animal, or plant, especially one that produces specific symptoms or that affects a specific location and is not simply a direct result of physical injury.
Synonyms
ailment, disorder, illness, sickness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| illness |
General term for poor health, which could be temporary or chronic. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
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| sickness |
Often refers to a temporary condition causing poor health, and can be used in casual conversations. It sometimes has a negative connotation when describing emotional or physical conditions.
|
| ailment |
Refers to a minor or non-life-threatening illness. Often used in casual conversations to describe everyday health issues.
|
| disorder |
Refers to an abnormal physical or mental condition. It is often used in medical or psychological contexts and may indicate chronic or permanent issues.
|
Examples of usage
- Prevention is better than cure when it comes to diseases.
- Regular exercise can help prevent various diseases.
- Vaccination is a key strategy in controlling infectious diseases.
- Genetic diseases can be inherited from one's parents.
- Many diseases can be managed effectively with proper medical treatment.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'disease' comes from Middle English 'disese', meaning 'lack of ease', first recorded in the 14th century.
- Ancient Egyptians had extensive medical texts, describing various ailments and their treatments, showcasing early understanding of diseases.
- The Greek physician Hippocrates, often called the 'father of medicine', linked diseases to environmental factors, lifestyle, and diet around 400 BC.
Science
- Pathogens, like bacteria and viruses, are commonly responsible for infectious diseases, which can spread from person to person.
- Chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, often stem from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
- The immune system plays a crucial role in fighting off diseases, helping to keep the body healthy by recognizing and attacking harmful invaders.
Pop Culture
- Many movies, such as 'Contagion', portray the fear and impact of infectious diseases on society, highlighting our collective response to outbreaks.
- Television shows often dramatize diseases through characters dealing with health issues, raising awareness about various medical conditions.
- Video games like 'Plague Inc.' engage players in strategies to manage and control the spread of fictional diseases, blending entertainment and education.
Psychology
- Mental health conditions, often termed psychological diseases, can affect thoughts, emotions, and behavior, impacting daily life.
- Stress and anxiety are linked to physical diseases, as chronic stress can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to illness.
- Awareness of mental diseases is rising, leading to improved understanding and reduced stigma, especially in conversations about wellness.
Literature
- Famous authors, such as Charles Dickens and Franz Kafka, have incorporated diseases into their storytelling, symbolizing societal issues.
- In literature, diseases often become metaphors for broader human experiences, exploring themes of suffering, resilience, and mortality.
- Works like 'The Plague' by Albert Camus delve into the philosophical implications of disease, offering insights into human nature during crises.
Origin of 'diseases'
The word 'diseases' originated from the Old French word 'desaise', meaning 'lack of ease'. It was first used in the 14th century to describe a condition that causes discomfort or lack of well-being. Over the centuries, the term evolved to encompass a broader range of disorders affecting living organisms, including humans, animals, and plants.
See also: diseased.