Pathological: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term comes from the Greek word 'pathos,' meaning 'suffering' or 'disease,' combined with 'logos,' meaning 'study' or 'discourse.'
• Originally, the term was used in medical contexts to describe illnesses and their effects.

Psychology

• Pathological behaviors can include emotional problems, compulsions, or irrational actions that often disrupt normal life.
• Pathological lying is a specific type of behavioral disorder where a person lies compulsively, even without benefit.

Pop Culture

• Pathological characters appear frequently in literature and film, often depicted with extreme traits that drive their actions.
• The TV series 'Dexter' explores the life of a pathological killer who uses his urges for vigilante justice.

Medical Context

• In medicine, 'pathological' often refers to the study of disease process, including symptoms and effects on the body.
• Pathological analysis can help diagnose diseases by examining tissues or organs for abnormal changes.

Literature

• Several classic literary works analyze pathological behavior, examining the minds of characters driven by their compulsions.
• Authors like Edgar Allan Poe often explore themes of madness and the psychological consequences of pathological states.

Position #7,982 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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• 7979 harmonic
• 7980 unclear
• 7981 contested
• 7982 pathological
• 7983 committing
• 7984 mould
• 7985 normative
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