Meaning & Definition of word "Malaria"

Malaria

/məˈlɛəriə/

noun:

  • 1. A disease caused by a parasite transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes, characterized by fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms.
    • Example: Malaria is a significant health issue in many tropical regions.
  • 2. The specific parasites causing the disease, such as Plasmodium falciparum.
    • Example: Researchers are studying new treatments to combat Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous malaria parasite.
  • 3. The recurring fever and other symptoms associated with the disease.
    • Example: He was bedridden for days due to the severe malaria attacking his body.

Etymology

From Italian mala aria, meaning 'bad air' (formerly believed to be the cause of the disease).

Common Phrases and Expressions

malaria prevention:

Methods and measures taken to prevent the transmission of malaria.

malaria eradication:

Efforts aimed at completely eliminating malaria from a region.

Related Words

mosquito:

A flying insect that can transmit diseases, including malaria.

parasite:

An organism that lives on or in a host and benefits at the host's expense.

Slang Meanings of malaria

Meaning: The shakes

Example Sentence: After contracting malaria, he was experiencing the shakes due to high fever.

Meaning: Malarial fever

Example Sentence: He had to miss work because he came down with malarial fever.