asthmatic
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /æzˈmæθ.mætɪk/
KK: /æsmætɪk/
adjective
Definition
Relating to or affected by a condition that makes it difficult to breathe, often characterized by wheezing and coughing.
Example
The asthmatic child had to use an inhaler during physical activities.
Conversation
I heard you’ve been having some trouble breathing lately.
Yeah, my doctor said I would be considered asthmatic if it keeps up.
That sounds tough; how are you feeling about it?
I’m managing, but I have to be more careful with exercise.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
wheezy
breathless
suffocating
Antonyms
healthy
fit
strong
noun
Definition
A person who has a medical condition that makes it hard to breathe due to narrowed airways.
Example
The asthmatic had to carry an inhaler to help with breathing during exercise.
Conversation
Did you know that Jake is an asthmatic?
Really? I didn’t know that about him.
Yeah, he always carries his inhaler with him.
Root Explanation
Asthmatic → It is formed from "asthma" (from Greek "asthma", meaning shortness of breath) and "-tic" (meaning pertaining to). The word "asthmatic" refers to a condition pertaining to or characterized by asthma, which involves difficulty in breathing.
Memory Tip
Think of 'asthma' as a condition of 'shortness of breath' — the '-tic' just means related to it. So, an asthmatic is someone who has a condition related to breathing difficulties.
Visually Confused Words
athematic
astatic
nonasthmatic
antasthmatic
pathematic
mathematic
astigmatic
thematic