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Gastroenteritis: meaning, definitions and examples

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gastroenteritis

 

[ ˌɡæstroʊˌɛntəˈraɪtɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. It results in symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and cramping. This condition is commonly referred to as 'stomach flu', although it is not caused by the influenza virus.

Synonyms

gastrointestinal infection, intestinal infection, stomach flu

Examples of usage

  • The child was diagnosed with gastroenteritis after vomiting and diarrhea.
  • Gastroenteritis can spread rapidly in crowded places like schools and daycare centers.
  • Staying hydrated is crucial when recovering from gastroenteritis.

Word origin

The term 'gastroenteritis' originates from the combination of Greek and Latin elements. The prefix 'gastro-' comes from the Greek 'gaster', meaning 'stomach', while 'enteritis' combines 'enteron', the Greek word for 'intestine', with the Latin suffix '-itis', which denotes inflammation. This medical term reflects the condition's characteristic inflammation of both the stomach and intestines. First documented in medical literature in the early 19th century, gastroenteritis has long been recognized as a significant public health concern due to its potential to cause widespread illness, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children and the elderly. Over the years, improvements in sanitation and hygiene have reduced the incidence of gastroenteritis, but outbreaks still occur, particularly in areas with limited access to clean water and proper wastewater management.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,231, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.