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Emaciation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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emaciation

[ɪˌmeɪʃiˈeɪʃən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

health condition

Emaciation refers to the state of being abnormally thin or weak, typically due to a lack of adequate nutrition or to chronic illness. It is characterized by a significant loss of body mass that can lead to severe health complications.

Synonyms

malnutrition, thinness, wasting.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was in a state of emaciation due to prolonged fasting.
  • Emaciation can be a symptom of various medical conditions, including cancer.
  • After months of malnutrition, his emaciation was evident and alarming.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Health and Nutrition

  • Emaciation often results from malnutrition, where the body does not receive adequate nutrients to maintain weight.
  • Chronic illnesses or eating disorders frequently lead to emaciation, affecting both physical and mental health.
  • In severe cases, emaciation can cause organ failure, demonstrating the importance of maintaining a proper diet.

Cultural References

  • Art often depicts emaciated figures to symbolize suffering or struggle, as seen in works from the Renaissance period.
  • In literature, characters may experience emaciation as a metaphor for emotional turmoil or social injustice.

Psychology

  • The psychological impact of emaciation can lead to body image issues, influenced by societal beauty standards.
  • It can also indicate mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, as emotional health affects physical health.

Historical Context

  • During famines in history, emaciation rates increased, highlighting the dire consequences of food scarcity.
  • In concentration camps during WWII, many prisoners exhibited severe emaciation, a testament to inhumane conditions.

Origin of 'emaciation'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'emaciatus,' meaning 'haggard' or 'lean,' emphasizing loss of flesh.
  • The prefix 'e-' means 'out of' or 'away from,' combined with 'macies,' which denotes 'leanness.'

The term 'emaciation' derives from the Latin word 'emaciatus', which is the past participle of 'emaciare', meaning 'to make thin'. This Latin root is a combination of 'e-', meaning 'out of' or 'away from', and 'macere', meaning 'to make thin, to waste away'. The progression of the word into English occurred in the 15th century, emphasizing the physical state and often used in medical contexts. Historically, emaciation has been linked to various famines, diseases, and health conditions, leading to a deeper understanding of the importance of nutrition for human health.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,934, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.