Definition

A condition where the conjunctiva, the thin layer covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, becomes inflamed, leading to redness and often discharge.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with conjunctivitis after she complained of redness in her eyes.

Conversation

I heard you were feeling under the weather lately.

Yeah, I think I might have conjunctivitis because my eyes are really red.

Oh no, that sounds uncomfortable!

It is, but I'm going to see a doctor about it soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Conjunctivitis → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "junctus" (from "jungere", meaning to join) and "-itis" (meaning inflammation). The word refers to the inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the membrane that joins the eyelid and the eyeball together.

Memory Tip

Think of the conjunctiva being 'joined' ('junctus') together with the eyelid, and when it becomes inflamed, that's what we call conjunctivitis.

Visually Confused Words