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Jaundice Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jaundice

[หˆdส’ษ”หn.dษชs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes due to an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream. This condition often indicates underlying health issues related to the liver, gallbladder, or red blood cells. Jaundice can manifest in various forms, including neonatal jaundice, which occurs in newborns, and obstructive jaundice, resulting from a blockage in the bile ducts. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and assessments of liver function.

Synonyms

icterus, yellowing.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor diagnosed him with jaundice after noticing the yellow tint in his eyes.
  • Jaundice is common in newborns and usually resolves within a few weeks.
  • Chronic liver disease can lead to jaundice as the liver's ability to process bilirubin is compromised.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • Jaundice is often a symptom of an underlying issue, such as liver disease, hepatitis, or bile duct obstruction.
  • It can occur at any age, but newborns commonly experience a mild form due to immature liver function, known as neonatal jaundice.
  • In adults, chronic jaundice can signal serious health conditions that require immediate medical attention.

Psychology

  • The word 'jaundiced' has also come to mean having a cynical or negative perspective, drawing an analogy from the physical symptoms.
  • Psychologists note that prolonged illness can lead to feelings of depression or anxiety, intertwining health and mental wellbeing.
  • People with chronic diseases may develop a 'jaundiced outlook', affecting their social interactions and self-esteem.

Art & Literature

  • Many artists and writers use the term 'jaundiced' metaphorically to describe a character with a cynical view of the world.
  • In literature, yellow often symbolizes caution or illness, which correlates with the visible effects of jaundice.
  • Famous artists like Vincent Van Gogh used the color yellow extensively, sometimes reflecting themes of suffering and struggle.

Pop Culture

  • Jaundice has been referenced in various TV shows and movies, often symbolizing both physical and moral ailments.
  • In cartoons, characters with jaundice are portrayed exaggeratedly to emphasize their unusual appearance to elicit humor or highlight their plight.
  • The condition is often a plot device in mystery or medical dramas, serving as a clue to a characterโ€™s health issues.

Origin of 'jaundice'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'jaundice' comes from the Old French word 'jaunisse', meaning 'yellowing'.
  • This word is derived from 'jaune', the French word for 'yellow', highlighting its visible symptom.
  • The condition has been recognized since ancient times, with references found in texts by Hippocrates, a famous Greek physician.

The word 'jaundice' comes from the Old French word 'jaunisse', which means 'yellowing'. This term derives from 'jaune', meaning 'yellow', which in turn traces back to the Latin word 'galbina', associated with the color yellow. Jaundice has been recognized in medical literature for centuries, with historical references to its symptoms and implications found in ancient texts. The understanding of its causes and treatment has evolved over time, transitioning from folklore and rudimentary medical practices to modern diagnostics and therapies. As a condition, jaundice serves as a crucial indicator in medicine for a range of hepatic and hematologic disorders, highlighting the intricate relationship between liver function, blood composition, and overall health.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,116, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.