rheumatic
|rheu-mat-ic|
/ˌruːˈmætɪk/
relating to rheumatism/joint-muscle inflammation
Etymology
'rheumatic' originates from Modern English, ultimately from Medieval Latin 'rheumaticus', from Greek 'rheumatikos', where 'rheuma' meant 'a flowing (discharge)'.
'rheumatic' changed from Medieval Latin 'rheumaticus' and Greek 'rheumatikos' and eventually became the modern English adjective 'rheumatic'.
Initially it referred to matters pertaining to 'rheum' (a discharge) and bodily flows; over time it evolved to its current medical meaning relating to rheumatism and rheumatic diseases (joint/muscle inflammation and pain).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who suffers from rheumatism or rheumatic disease.
The clinic provides specialized care for rheumatics and their joint problems.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to, caused by, or characteristic of rheumatism (a group of disorders marked by inflammation, pain, or stiffness in joints or muscles).
She has been treated for chronic rheumatic pain in her shoulders.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/26 20:13