Necrotic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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necrotic

[nɛkˈrɒtɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

Necrotic refers to the process of necrosis, which is the death of cells or tissues in the body. It typically occurs due to a lack of blood supply, infection, or injury. Necrotic tissues can become blackened and lose their function. In a medical context, identifying necrotic tissue is crucial for proper treatment and can indicate serious health issues, such as gangrene. Prompt medical intervention is often required to prevent the spread of necrosis.

Synonyms

dead, decayed, gangrenous.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor noticed necrotic tissue during the examination.
  • The wound became necrotic, necessitating surgical intervention.
  • Due to the infection, parts of the limb were necrotic.
  • Necrotic cells can lead to severe complications if not treated.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • Necrotic tissue can occur from poor blood supply, infections, or prolonged pressure on the skin.
  • In cases like diabetes, necrosis can result in serious infections and sometimes requires amputation if untreated.

Literature

  • In Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein', themes of decay and the transition from life to death reflect on necrotic ideas.
  • Poets often use the concept of decay as a metaphor for loss and mortality, connecting to the idea of necrosis.

Pop Culture

  • Horror films sometimes feature necrotic imagery to illustrate the consequences of neglecting health or morality.
  • Video games often depict necrotic decay as a form of enemy character, symbolizing corruption and evil.

Psychology

  • The concept of 'necrotic' has been used metaphorically in psychology to describe emotional detachment or traumatic experiences.
  • Therapists may refer to 'necrotic' feelings to help clients understand the effects of unresolved grief and emotional decay.

Origin of 'necrotic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'nekrosis', meaning 'death' or 'death of tissue'.
  • In medical terminology, 'necrosis' has been used since the 19th century to describe dead tissue.

The term 'necrotic' originates from the Greek word 'nekrosis', which means 'the act of death' and is derived from 'nekros' meaning 'dead body'. The early usage of the term can be traced back to scientific literature in the 19th century when medical professionals began to study cell death and tissue degeneration more systematically. The prefix 'necro-' is often utilized in medical terminology to indicate a relationship to death or decay. As medical knowledge expanded, the concept of necrosis became essential for understanding various diseases and conditions. Consequently, 'necrotic' became an important term in pathology, providing a way to describe and classify the state of tissues in various ailments.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,129, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.