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Syphilis - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that progresses in stages if untreated, causing sores, rashes, and serious long-term health complications. It is curable with antibiotics.

syphilis

/ˈsɪfəlɪs/ /ˈsɪfɪlɪs/

Definition:

A sexually transmitted bacterial infection causing sores, rashes, and long-term complications if untreated.

Synonyms:

lues, pox, venereal disease

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

health, wellness

Common Collocations:

congenital syphilis, latent syphilis, syphilis infection, syphilis test, syphilis treatment

Derivatives:

syphilitic, syphiloid

Usage Tips:

Use "syphilis" as a noun referring to the disease; avoid informal terms like "the clap."

Common Phrases:

tertiary syphilis, primary syphilis, secondary syphilis

Etymology:

From Latin *syphilis*, coined in a 1530 poem about a shepherd with the disease.

Examples:

  • 1. The doctor diagnosed him with syphilis after blood tests confirmed it.
  • 2. Syphilis can cause serious health problems if left untreated for years.
  • 3. Pregnant women with syphilis may pass the infection to their babies.
  • 4. Early-stage syphilis is treatable with antibiotics like penicillin.

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