die Schwindsucht
consumption
Definition & meaning
Schwindsucht is an archaic or historical term for tuberculosis of the lungs (phthisis). It refers to a chronic, wasting disease that causes the body to "wither away" or lose weight rapidly. In historical contexts, it is often associated with the progressive physical decline of the patient.
Grammar & Word origin
The word is a feminine noun (die Schwindsucht). It is a compound word composed of two parts:
- Schwinden: Derived from the verb schwinden, meaning to disappear, dwindle, vanish, or fade away.
- Sucht: Derived from the Middle High German suht, meaning sickness, disease, or addiction.
Etymologically, it describes a "sickness of dwindling," accurately capturing the symptoms of severe weight loss and physical deterioration associated with the disease.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
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Examples
Früher war die Schwindsucht eine sehr gefährliche Krankheit.Word type unavailable
In the past, consumption was a very dangerous disease.
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