ENGLISH
REFERENCE

arthritis

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɑɹˈθɹaɪtəs// UK //ɑːθɹˈaɪtɪs// arthri·tis

n. a medical condition that makes your joints feel painful, stiff, and swollen. It often makes it hard to move your fingers, knees, or back easily.

n. inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness that can worsen with age. Often used as a general term for over 100 different conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system.


SIMPLE

My grandmother has arthritis in her hands.

CONTEXTUAL

The doctor recommended swimming because it is a low-impact exercise that doesn't hurt patients with arthritis.

COMPLEX

While rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, osteoarthritis is primarily characterized by the mechanical wear and tear of cartilage over several decades.

Origin

From Latin arthrītis, from Ancient Greek ἀρθρῖτις (arthrîtis, “joint-disease, gout”), from ἄρθρον (árthron, “a joint”). By surface analysis, arthr- + -itis.

Usage

Typically used without an article when referring to the condition generally; can be modified by a specific body part ('arthritis of the knee').

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