English Lexicon

Osteoarthritis

/ˌɒstɪoʊɑːrˈθraɪtɪs/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A type of arthritis that occurs when flexible tissue at the ends of bones wears down.

    "Many older adults suffer from osteoarthritis, which can lead to joint pain and stiffness."
  2. 2

    A degenerative joint disease that commonly affects the knees, hips, and hands.

    "Osteoarthritis can significantly impact a person's mobility and quality of life."

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Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'osteoarthritis' is derived from the Greek words 'osteon' meaning 'bone', 'arthron' meaning 'joint', and the Latin 'itis' meaning 'inflammation'. It emerged in medical terminology in the late 19th century to describe degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage.

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