Vertigo: meaning, definitions and examples
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vertigo
[ ˈvɜːrtɪɡəʊ ]
medical condition
A sensation of whirling and loss of balance, associated particularly with looking down from a great height or caused by disease affecting the inner ear or the vestibular nerve.
Synonyms
dizziness, giddiness, spinning sensation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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vertigo |
Identical to the first listing. Used in medical or formal contexts to describe a specific type of dizziness that involves a feeling of spinning or movement. Often associated with inner ear issues or neurological disorders.
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dizziness |
Used in general and non-technical contexts to describe a variety of sensations, including light-headedness and feeling faint. It does not necessarily involve a spinning sensation.
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spinning sensation |
Used to describe the specific feeling that the surroundings are moving or rotating. Often used in informal settings to specify the type of dizziness being experienced.
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giddiness |
Informal and somewhat old-fashioned term, often used to describe a feeling of light-headedness or excitement. It can sometimes carry a connotation of frivolity or youthful behavior.
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Examples of usage
- The patient experienced vertigo when looking down from the top of the skyscraper.
- She felt a sudden onset of vertigo while riding the roller coaster.
movie title
A 1958 psychological thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, about a man who is forced to face his acrophobia and vertigo.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
vertigo |
Use 'vertigo' to describe the sensation of dizziness or the feeling that you or your surroundings are spinning. It generally appears in medical contexts.
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film |
Use 'film' to refer to a motion picture, especially in a more artistic or classic sense. It is often used in discussions involving the art and technique of filmmaking.
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movie |
Use 'movie' to refer to a motion picture in a more casual, everyday context. It's the term commonly used in North American English.
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thriller |
Use 'thriller' to describe a genre of literature, film, or television known for its suspense, tension, and excitement. It often involves crime, psychological intrigue, or espionage.
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Examples of usage
- Vertigo is considered one of Hitchcock's most iconic films.
- The plot twist in Vertigo left the audience in awe.
Translations
Translations of the word "vertigo" in other languages:
🇵🇹 vertigem
🇮🇳 चक्कर
🇩🇪 Schwindel
🇮🇩 vertigo
🇺🇦 запаморочення
🇵🇱 zawroty głowy
🇯🇵 めまい
🇫🇷 vertige
🇪🇸 vértigo
🇹🇷 baş dönmesi
🇰🇷 현기증
🇸🇦 دوار
🇨🇿 závrať
🇸🇰 závrat
🇨🇳 眩晕
🇸🇮 vrtoglavica
🇮🇸 svimi
🇰🇿 бас айналу
🇬🇪 თავბრუსხვევა
🇦🇿 başgicəllənmə
🇲🇽 vértigo
Etymology
The word 'vertigo' originated from the Latin word 'vertere', meaning 'to turn'. It was first used in the English language in the 16th century to describe a sensation of dizziness or spinning. Over time, the term became associated with a specific medical condition related to balance and inner ear issues. In popular culture, 'vertigo' is also known for its connection to the classic film by Alfred Hitchcock, adding to its cultural significance.
See also: vertiginous.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #17,623, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 17620 exclaim
- 17621 viceroy
- 17622 corroborate
- 17623 vertigo
- 17624 excellently
- 17625 vestry
- 17626 frock
- ...