Syndrome: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originates from the Greek 'syndromē', meaning 'running together', referring to symptoms occurring simultaneously.
• It was first used in medical terminology in the 19th century, highlighting its importance in diagnosing diseases.

Psychology

• Some syndromes, like 'Stockholm Syndrome', describe an emotional bond that develops between captors and hostages.
• In psychology, many syndromes relate to behavioral patterns, like 'Asperger's Syndrome', now categorized under Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Medicine

• Syndromes can often help in the diagnosis of complex conditions; for instance, Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder identified by specific physical traits.
• Some syndromes are named after the doctors who first described them, such as 'Marfan Syndrome', which affects connective tissue.

Pop Culture

• Syndromes have been popularized in films and books, such as the 'Syndrome' character in Pixar’s 'The Incredibles', a villain with a complex backstory.
• The term is often used in media to describe situations where common themes emerge, like 'impostor syndrome' in the tech industry.

Social Science

• Terms like 'impostor syndrome' reflect modern societal pressures, where individuals doubt their accomplishments despite evident success.
• The rise of mental health awareness has brought attention to how specific syndromes affect individuals’ lives and self-perception.

Ranking #3,730, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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