albinism
|al-bi-nism|
C1
/ˈælbɪˌnɪzəm/
lack of pigment
Etymology
Etymology Information
'albinism' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'albus,' meaning 'white.'
Historical Evolution
'albus' transformed into the French word 'albinos,' and eventually became the modern English word 'albinism' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'white or pale appearance,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a genetic condition causing lack of pigment.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes, resulting in pale skin, light hair, and vision problems.
Albinism can lead to increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Synonyms
Antonyms
melanism
Last updated: 2025/06/13 18:21