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Dysentery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dysentery

[dษชsษ™nหŒtษ›ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Dysentery is an intestinal infection causing diarrhea that can be severe and is often accompanied by blood and mucus in the feces. It is typically caused by bacteria or parasites and can spread through contaminated food and water. The condition can lead to dehydration and significant health complications if left untreated.

Synonyms

diarrhea, enteritis, gastroenteritis.

Examples of usage

  • The village faced an outbreak of dysentery after the water supply was contaminated.
  • Symptoms of dysentery include abdominal pain and fever.
  • Inadequate sanitation contributes significantly to the spread of dysentery.
  • Travelers to certain regions should be aware of the risk of dysentery.
  • Dysentery can be caused by several types of bacteria, including Shigella.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'dysentery' comes from the Greek word 'dysenteria,' meaning 'difficult bowel' related to discomfort.
  • Throughout history, this illness has impacted armies and migrations, often spreading rapidly in unsanitary conditions.

Science

  • Two main types cause the illness: bacillary dysentery, caused by bacteria, and amoebic dysentery, caused by a parasite.
  • It's often spread through contaminated food and water, highlighting the importance of hygiene and sanitation.

Literature

  • Dysentery has been depicted in various works of literature, often representing the struggles of survival during war or exploration.
  • Classic novels like 'The Heart of Darkness' reference this illness to illustrate the harsh realities of colonial journeys.

Pop Culture

  • The game Oregon Trail famously included dysentery as one of the common causes of death, emphasizing its historical prevalence.
  • In a famous cartoon, a character humorously overreacts to the mention of dysentery, showcasing public awareness of its seriousness.

Health

  • Despite being preventable, dysentery remains a significant health issue in many parts of the world, especially in developing regions.
  • Access to clean water and sanitation is crucial in preventing outbreaks and providing effective treatment for those infected.

Origin of 'dysentery'

The term 'dysentery' originates from the Greek word 'dysenteria', where 'dys-' means 'bad' or 'difficult', and 'enteron' refers to the intestinal tract. The word was adapted into Latin as 'dysenteria' and entered English usage in the late 14th century. Historically, dysentery has been recognized as a significant health threat, especially in crowded or unsanitary conditions, and well-documented outbreaks have occurred in military camps and during wartime. Understanding its causes and treatment has been crucial in combating dysentery, which remains prevalent in some parts of the world today. Despite advances in medical science, dysentery is still a concern in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,713, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.