Definition

A medical condition where the body cannot properly use sugar, leading to high levels of sugar in the blood and causing symptoms like increased thirst and frequent urination.

Example

My doctor diagnosed me with diabetes after I reported my symptoms.

Conversation

I heard that my uncle was diagnosed with diabetes recently.

Oh no, that's tough! How is he doing?

He's adjusting, but it's been a big change for him.

I can imagine. It must be hard to manage a condition like diabetes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diabetes → It is derived from the Greek word "siphon" ("siphon" is from "diabaino", meaning to pass through) and the Greek word "insulin" (from "insulins", meaning island). The term originally referred to the condition where excess sugar passes through the urine, resembling a siphon effect.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'diabetes' as describing a condition where sugar is 'passing through' the body, much like a siphon moves liquid.

Visually Confused Words