Meaning & Definition of word "Chronic"

Chronic

/ˈkrɒn.ɪk/

adjective:

  • 1. Continuing for a long time; ongoing.
    • Example: She suffers from chronic pain that makes it difficult to perform daily activities.
  • 2. Marked by long duration or frequent recurrence.
    • Example: The patient was diagnosed with chronic asthma, requiring regular treatment.
  • 3. Of long duration, often in a progressive or deteriorating fashion.
    • Example: Chronic unemployment is a significant issue in many urban areas.
  • 4. Persistent and enduring, often implying a serious condition.
    • Example: He has a chronic condition that requires continuous medical attention.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'chronikos', from 'chronos', meaning time.

Common Phrases and Expressions

chronic condition:

A medical condition that is persistent and long-lasting.

chronic pain:

Pain that lasts for an extended period, often more than 12 weeks.

chronic stress:

A prolonged and constant feeling of stress that can negatively affect health.

Related Words

acute:

Referring to a condition that is sharp, severe, or sudden, often in contrast to chronic.

remission:

A period during which the symptoms of a chronic disease are reduced or not detectable.

flare-up:

A sudden worsening of symptoms in a chronic condition.

Slang Meanings of chronic

Meaning: Referring to something that is long-lasting or persistent in a non-medical context.

Example Sentence: His chronic procrastination always gets him in trouble.

Meaning: Used to describe high-quality cannabis.

Example Sentence: This bud is some serious chronic!