Meaning & Definition of word "Chronic"

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    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!