Diabetes

/ˌdaɪ.əˈbiː.tɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A chronic medical condition characterized by high blood sugar levels due to the body's inability to produce or effectively use insulin.
She was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 30 after experiencing extreme fatigue.
A group of diseases that result in too much sugar in the blood (high blood sugar).
There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1, which is typically diagnosed in children and young adults, and Type 2, which is more common in adults.
A condition that requires careful management of diet and blood sugar levels.
Living with diabetes means regularly monitoring her blood sugar and planning meals accordingly.
An endocrine disorder that can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly.
Diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease, kidney issues, and nerve damage.

Etymology

From the Greek 'siphon' (diabainein), referring to the frequent urination common in those with the disease.

Common Phrases and Expressions

juvenile diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes that often develops in children and adolescents.
gestational diabetes:
Diabetes that develops during pregnancy.
type 2 diabetes:
A form of diabetes that typically develops in adults and is characterized by insulin resistance.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Sugar
He's got a bit of sugar, so he has to watch what he eats.
Sweet disease
They jokingly call it the sweet disease because of the sugar connection.