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Diphtheria - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose. It can cause difficulty breathing, heart failure, and even death if untreated. Vaccination prevents it.

diphtheria

/dɪfˈθɪriə/ /dɪfˈθɪərɪə/

Definition:

A serious bacterial infection causing throat inflammation and difficulty breathing.

Synonyms:

throat infection, bacterial disease, respiratory illness

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

health, wellness

Common Collocations:

diphtheria vaccine, diphtheria outbreak, diphtheria symptoms

Derivatives:

diphtheritic, diphtheroid

Usage Tips:

Use "diphtheria" to refer specifically to the bacterial disease, not general throat infections.

Common Phrases:

diphtheria scare, fight against diphtheria, diphtheria epidemic

Etymology:

From Greek "diphthera" (leather), referring to the throat membrane's appearance.

Examples:

  • 1. The doctor diagnosed the child with diphtheria after examining her swollen throat.
  • 2. Vaccination has nearly eradicated diphtheria in many countries.
  • 3. She recovered from diphtheria after weeks of intensive treatment.
  • 4. Health officials warned about a diphtheria outbreak in the region.

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