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Sclerotic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sclerotic

[skləˈrɒtɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

Sclerotic refers to a condition characterized by abnormal hardening of body tissue, particularly in reference to tissues like blood vessels or organs. In medicine, it describes tissues that have become hard due to various factors such as inflammation, disease processes, or the aging of tissues. Conditions like multiple sclerosis or certain arterial diseases may exhibit sclerotic changes. This term is significant in understanding various disease mechanisms and the implications of tissue rigidity on health.

Synonyms

hardened, indurated, rigid.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was diagnosed with sclerotic changes in the liver.
  • Sclerotic arteries can lead to serious cardiovascular issues.
  • The MRI showed evidence of sclerotic lesions in the brain.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • In medical contexts, sclerotic tissue can develop as a result of chronic inflammation or injury.
  • Conditions like multiple sclerosis involve sclerotic lesions in the nervous system.
  • Sclerotic changes in the arteries can lead to serious cardiovascular diseases.

Biology

  • Plant tissues can also be described as sclerotic when they develop hard, thick walls to support or protect the plant.
  • In animals, the sclera is the hard, white outer layer of the eyeball, providing structure and protection.
  • Sclerotic features are often adaptations for survival, reinforcing tissues against environmental stress.

Psychology

  • The term can metaphorically describe thinking patterns that become rigid and unchanging, leading to difficulty in adapting.
  • Psychological 'sclerosis' might symbolize an inflexible mindset, unable to accept new ideas or experiences.
  • Therapeutic approaches often aim to 'soften' sclerotic thoughts, encouraging growth and flexibility.

Cultural References

  • In literature, the term can represent characters or societies that resist change, becoming stagnant over time.
  • Artistic expressions may depict 'sclerotic' themes as a critique of social norms that discourage evolution.
  • The concept can be used in cultural dialogues about tradition versus innovation, highlighting struggles against rigid structures.

Origin of 'sclerotic'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Greek word 'scleros' meaning hard or stiff, indicating a change in texture.
  • Used in medical terminology for conditions where tissues become thickened or scarred.
  • The root also appears in words like 'sclerosis,' which refers to hardening of bodily tissues.

The term 'sclerotic' originates from the Greek word 'skleros', meaning hard. It has been used in medical terminology since the 19th century to describe various pathological conditions where tissue becomes hardened. In the context of diseases, 'sclerosis' became popularized, associating the term with specific conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, which is characterized by the hardening of tissues in the nervous system. The adjective form, 'sclerotic', is derived from the Greek root, reflecting the physical properties of the affected tissues. The acceptance and usage of the term within medical discourse have evolved, enhancing our understanding of both vascular and neurological conditions that exhibit sclerotic characteristics.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,853, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.