Disease

/dɪˈziːz/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A disorder of structure or function in a human, animal, or plant, often characterized by abnormal signs and symptoms.

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

A particular medical condition that is associated with specific symptoms and signs.

The doctor diagnosed her with a rare disease that affects her immune system.

A harmful or disruptive process in a society or environment.

Corruption is often considered a disease of governance.

An infectious or communicable illness.

The outbreak of a new disease caused alarm among public health officials.

Middle English, from Old French 'desaise', meaning 'lack of ease, discomfort'.

disease prevention

Actions taken to avoid the occurrence or spread of disease.

communicable disease

A disease that can be transmitted from one person to another.

chronic disease

A long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured.

infection

The invasion of microorganisms causing disease.

pathogen

An organism that causes disease.

syndrome

A group of symptoms that together are characteristics of a specific disease.

The plague

He said his job felt like the plague, nothing but a disease.

Contagion

Her gossiping is like a contagion spreading through the office.