# meningitis

/ˌmɛnənˈdʒaɪtəs/ (US) · /mˌɛnɪndʒˈaɪtɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/meningitis
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a serious illness where the thin layer of tissue covering your brain and spinal cord becomes swollen. It is often caused by a virus or bacteria and needs quick medical help.

For teachers: inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, typically caused by viral or bacterial infection.

## Examples

- The doctor checked the child for symptoms of meningitis.
- Health officials urged students to get vaccinated against meningitis before moving into shared university dormitories.
- While viral meningitis is generally less severe, bacterial strains can cause rapid physiological decline and require immediate intravenous antibiotic treatment to prevent permanent neurological damage.

## Usage notes

- Usually uncountable when referring to the disease; can be countable when referring to specific clinical cases or types.

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