Definition

A disease in which fatty deposits build up on the walls of arteries, making them narrow and hard, which can lead to heart problems.

Example

Doctors often recommend lifestyle changes to help prevent atherosclerosis.

Conversation

Have you heard about atherosclerosis?

Yeah, I think it's related to heart health, right?

Exactly! It involves plaque buildup in the arteries.

That sounds serious; we should take care of our diets.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Atherosclerosis is formed from "athero-" (from Greek "athēr" meaning gruel or porridge, referring to fatty deposits) and "sclerosis" (from Greek "sklerosis" meaning hardness). The term describes the hardening of arteries due to fatty deposits, resembling gruel or porridge in texture.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gruel' or 'porridge' ('athero-') that builds up and causes 'hardness' ('sclerosis') in the arteries, which helps you remember that atherosclerosis refers to the hardening of arteries due to fatty deposits.

Visually Confused Words