Typhoid

/ˈtaɪ.fɔɪd/

Meaning & Definition

noun
Typhoid is an infectious bacterial fever caused by Salmonella typhi, characterized by a high fever, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
After traveling to a region with poor sanitation, she was diagnosed with typhoid fever.
Typhoid refers to the illness that can result from infection by the typhoid bacterium.
In the early 20th century, typhoid was a major public health concern in many urban areas.
The term typhoid can also describe the vaccination against typhoid fever.
He received the typhoid vaccine before his trip to Southeast Asia.

Etymology

From Latin 'typhus' meaning 'typhus fever' and 'oid' meaning 'like' or 'resembling'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

typhoid vaccine
A vaccine that provides immunity against typhoid fever.
typhoid management
The approach to treating and controlling typhoid outbreaks.
typhoid carrier
An individual who harbors the typhoid bacteria without showing symptoms but can spread the infection.

Related Words

salmonella
A genus of bacteria that includes several pathogenic species, including Salmonella typhi.
fever
An elevated body temperature often indicating infection.
gastroenteritis
Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by infection.

Slang Meanings

Typhoid Mary
The term 'Typhoid Mary' refers to an asymptomatic carrier of a disease who unknowingly spreads it to others.
Infected
After returning from overseas, he was jokingly referred to as being 'typhoided' by his friends.