Gangrene: meaning, definitions and examples

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gangrene

 

[ ˈɡæŋɡriːn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Gangrene is a serious medical condition that occurs when body tissue dies due to a lack of blood flow or infection. It can be caused by various factors, including injury, surgery, diabetes, or infections. There are different types of gangrene, including dry gangrene, wet gangrene, and gas gangrene, each with its own characteristics and treatment approaches. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if gangrene is suspected, as it can lead to severe complications, including amputation or death if left untreated.

Synonyms

dead tissue, mortification, tissue necrosis

Examples of usage

  • The doctor diagnosed him with dry gangrene.
  • Gangrene can develop after a severe infection.
  • Wet gangrene can spread rapidly and requires urgent care.
  • People with diabetes are at higher risk for gangrene.

Translations

Translations of the word "gangrene" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gangrena

🇮🇳 गैंग्रीन

🇩🇪 Gangrän

🇮🇩 gangren

🇺🇦 гангрена

🇵🇱 zgorzel

🇯🇵 壊死

🇫🇷 gangrène

🇪🇸 gangrena

🇹🇷 kangren

🇰🇷 괴저

🇸🇦 غرغرينا

🇨🇿 gangréna

🇸🇰 gangréna

🇨🇳 坏死

🇸🇮 gangrena

🇮🇸 gangræn

🇰🇿 гангрена

🇬🇪 განგრენა

🇦🇿 qanqren

🇲🇽 gangrena

Etymology

The term 'gangrene' has its origins in the Greek word 'gangaera', which means 'to eat away' or 'to consume'. This word was adopted into Latin as 'gangraena', and later into Old French as 'gangrène'. The concept of gangrene has been recognized for centuries, and historical texts describe the devastating effects of this condition, particularly in the context of war injuries and untreated wounds. Over time, medical advances have improved the understanding of gangrene's causes and treatments, but it remains a serious health threat, especially in populations with compromised blood circulation or immune systems. Throughout history, gangrene has resulted in amputations and fatalities, highlighting the importance of early intervention and appropriate care.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,603, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.