Meaning & Definition of Syphilis in English
Syphilis
A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.
Pronunciation:
/ˈsɪf.ə.lɪs/Part of Speech:
nounPlural:
syphilitidesDetailed Definitions
Definition: A chronic infectious disease caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum, typically characterized by distinct stages of infection.
Example Sentence: If left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious health complications.
Definition: The first stage is marked by the appearance of a sore or ulcer, known as a chancre.
Example Sentence: She noticed a chancre on her lip and suspected syphilis.
Definition: In its later stages, syphilis may affect the heart, brain, and other organs.
Example Sentence: Untreated syphilis can result in severe organ damage.
Etymology
Origin: The term 'syphilis' comes from a poem written in 1530 by Giovanni Battista Morgagni, where it was first used to describe the disease.
Synonyms
Common Phrases and Expressions
- The great pox: A historical term for syphilis due to its severity.
- Chancre: The primary sore associated with the first stage of syphilis.
- Secondary syphilis: The second stage characterized by skin rashes.
Translations
- Spanish: sífilis
- French: syphilis
- German: Syphilis
- Russian: сифилис
Related Words
- Treponema pallidum: The bacterium that causes syphilis.
- chancre: The ulcer that appears in the primary stage of syphilis.
- antibiotic: A type of medication used to treat syphilis.
Slang Meanings of syphilis
Meaning: The pox
Example Sentence: He joked about catching 'the pox' at the party, not realizing he might actually mean syphilis.
Meaning: Bad blood
Example Sentence: Some people refer to syphilis as bad blood in certain circles.