# hepatitis

/ˌhɛpəˈtaɪtəs/ (US) · /hˌɛpɐtˈaɪtɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hepatitis
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a serious disease that makes your liver swell and become painful. It is often caused by a virus and can make your skin look yellow.

For teachers: an inflammatory condition of the liver, typically caused by a viral infection but also potentially by toxins or autoimmune responses.

## Examples

- The doctor tested him for hepatitis after he felt very tired.
- Public health officials launched a campaign to encourage vaccinations against hepatitis B for all healthcare workers.
- Chronic hepatitis can lead to permanent liver damage or cirrhosis if the underlying inflammation is not managed through antiviral medication or significant lifestyle changes.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the disease generally; countable when referring to specific viral strains (e.g., 'hepatitis A and B are different hepatitises').

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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.