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Enteritis: meaning, definitions and examples

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enteritis

 

[ ˌɛn.təˈraɪ.tɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Enteritis is an inflammation of the intestine, particularly affecting the small intestine. It can result from infections, autoimmune diseases, or irritants, and typically leads to symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

Synonyms

bowel inflammation, gastroenteritis, intestinal inflammation

Examples of usage

  • The doctor diagnosed her with enteritis after reviewing her symptoms.
  • Enteritis can be caused by bacterial infections or contaminated food.
  • Children are particularly susceptible to enteritis due to their developing immune systems.

Word origin

The term 'enteritis' originated from the Greek word 'enteron,' meaning 'intestine,' combined with the suffix '-itis,' which denotes inflammation. The use of '-itis' in medical terminology reflects a longstanding tradition of using Greek and Latin to describe bodily conditions and diseases. Historically, enteritis has been recognized as a significant health issue, particularly in the context of foodborne diseases and infections. Over time, medical understanding of enteritis has evolved, leading to improved diagnostic techniques and treatment options, helping to manage cases more effectively.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,007, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.