# arthritis

/ɑɹˈθɹaɪtəs/ (US) · /ɑːθɹˈaɪtɪs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/arthritis
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- My grandmother has arthritis in her hands.
- The doctor recommended swimming because it is a low-impact exercise that doesn't hurt patients with arthritis.
- While rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, osteoarthritis is primarily characterized by the mechanical wear and tear of cartilage over several decades.

## Usage notes

- 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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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.