Epidemically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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epidemically
[หep-ษช-หdem-ษช-kli ]
Definition
disease spread
Epidemically refers to a manner in which something, particularly a disease or condition, spreads rapidly and extensively within a population. It indicates that the occurrence is similar to that of an epidemic, characterized by a quick rise in cases affecting many individuals at once.
Synonyms
contagiously, infectiously, widely.
Examples of usage
- The virus spread epidemically throughout the city.
- The flu season escalated epidemically last year.
- The disease was reported to be spreading epidemically in multiple countries.
- The misinformation about health issues circulated epidemically on social media.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Public Health
- Epidemically spread diseases can include flu, measles, or more recently, COVID-19, which affected millions worldwide.
- An epidemic can occur within a localized area, such as a city, or can affect larger regions if left unchecked.
- Monitoring and controlling epidemics involve public health measures like vaccinations and hygiene practices.
Pop Culture
- Literature and movies often explore the theme of epidemics, such as the 2011 film 'Contagion' which depicts how swiftly a virus can spread.
- Video games frequently incorporate epidemic themes, showcasing how players must control disease outbreaks, like in 'Pandemic Legacy.'
- Song lyrics sometimes reference epidemics metaphorically to discuss widespread feelings or societal issues.
Science
- Virology studies how viruses spread epidemically, focusing on factors such as transmission routes and mutation rates.
- Recent research shows climate change may influence epidemic patterns by altering the habitats of disease-carrying organisms.
- Mathematical models are used in epidemiology to predict the spread of diseases and the potential impact of interventions.
Sociology
- Epidemically occurring phenomena aren't limited to diseases; they can also refer to ideas or behaviors spreading through society (like trends).
- Social media plays a significant role in the rapid spread of information โ both negative (e.g. misinformation) and positive (e.g. health campaigns).
- Understanding the social context during an epidemic can provide insights into community resilience and response strategies.
Origin of 'epidemically'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'epidemic' comes from the Greek word 'epidฤmia,' meaning 'on' or 'among' the people.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially used to describe diseases affecting communities.
- The suffix '-ically' is added to turn an adjective into an adverb, showing how something spreads.
The term 'epidemically' derives from the root word 'epidemic,' which is derived from the Greek 'epidฤmia.' In Greek, 'epi' means 'upon' or 'over,' while 'demos' refers to 'the people.' Therefore, the literal meaning relates to something that is 'upon the people' or affecting a large number of people at once. The addition of the adverbial suffix '-ally' transitions the term from an adjective describing a sudden outbreak to an adverb describing the manner of such outbreaks. The use of 'epidemically' in English dates back to the early 19th century, corresponding to numerous public health discussions and studies on the spread of diseases. As public health awareness has grown, the term has been increasingly used to describe rapid and widespread occurrences of not just infectious diseases, but also social phenomena.