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Dropsy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dropsy

[หˆdrษ’p.si ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Dropsy is an outdated term that refers to the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues, resulting in swelling. This condition can be indicative of various underlying health issues, including heart, liver, or kidney problems. The term is seldom used in modern medical practice, having been largely replaced by the term 'edema'.

Synonyms

edema, fluid retention, swelling.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was diagnosed with dropsy due to liver failure.
  • In old medical texts, dropsy was often treated with herbal remedies.
  • He sought help for his dropsy, which had caused significant swelling in his legs.
  • Dropsy can be alarming in appearance but is often a symptom of other conditions.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Medical History

  • In ancient times, dropsy was often viewed as a curse or punishment due to its visible symptoms.
  • Doctors of the 19th century frequently misdiagnosed other diseases as dropsy, as it was poorly understood.
  • With the advent of modern medicine, the classification of dropsy has evolved to include terms like edema, which refers to swelling from fluid.

Literature

  • The word 'dropsy' has appeared in various classic literary works, often symbolizing excess or abundance that leads to trouble.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters exhibiting dropsy-like symptoms were often described to illustrate their moral or social decay.
  • In modern novels, dropsy can symbolize the burdens of life and the need for balance.

Pop Culture

  • Dropsy has been referenced in films and shows, usually in contexts portraying characters struggling with their health.
  • The term is less common in today's dialogue, with more people using terms like 'swelling' or 'edema' instead.
  • A famous literary character suffering from dropsy was depicted as a warning about neglecting one's health.

Psychological Impact

  • Dealing with a physical condition like dropsy can lead to anxiety or depression due to body image concerns.
  • Cultural perceptions of body image can make individuals with dropsy feel ostracized or stigmatized.
  • Mental health professionals often recommend support groups for anyone struggling with the psychological aspects of health conditions like dropsy.

Origin of 'dropsy'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'dropsy' comes from the Old English word 'dropse,' meaning 'a drop,' reflecting the swelling caused by fluid accumulation.
  • In Latin, 'aqua' means 'water,' and this ties to how the body fills with water in dropsy.
  • Historically, dropsy was associated with various conditions, often relating to heart and kidney issues.

The word 'dropsy' has its roots in the Middle English term 'drophie', which came from the Old French 'drophie' and further back from the Latin 'aqua' meaning 'water'. The etymology reflects the symptomatology of the conditionโ€”an abnormal accumulation of fluid resembling drops of water. Historically, dropsy was considered a separate disease and was understood in terms of humoral theory, prevalent in ancient medicine, where it was attributed to an imbalance of bodily fluids. Over the centuries, as medical understanding advanced, the term fell out of favor, with 'edema' becoming the preferred medical terminology, highlighting the evolution of medical language in response to deeper insights into human physiology.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,335, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.