Definition

A condition characterized by severe weight loss, muscle wasting, and weakness, often associated with chronic illness.

Example

The patient was diagnosed with cachexia due to his advanced cancer.

Conversation

I read an article about how cachexy affects people with chronic illnesses.

That sounds really serious. What exactly is cachexy?

It's a condition that leads to severe weight loss and muscle wasting.

Wow, I had no idea. That must be really tough for those individuals.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cachexy is derived from the Greek word "kakos" (meaning bad) and "hexis" (meaning condition or state). The term refers to a state of ill health or weakness, particularly due to chronic illness or malnutrition.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bad' ('kakos') condition ('hexis') to remember that cachexy refers to a state of poor health.

Visually Confused Words