Definition

Relating to or having the qualities of a serious bacterial infection that affects the throat and can cause difficulty in breathing.

Example

The doctor diagnosed the patient with a diphtheritic infection that required immediate treatment.

Conversation

I heard that some children are getting sick with a diphtheritic infection.

Oh no, that's concerning! What are the symptoms?

They say it can cause a sore throat and difficulty breathing.

That sounds serious; we should make sure everyone is vaccinated.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diphtheritic → It is formed from "diphtheria" (from Greek "diphthera", meaning leather or hide) and the suffix "-itic" (meaning pertaining to). The word "diphtheritic" refers to something related to or characteristic of diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection.

Memory Tip

Think of 'diphtheria' which refers to a serious infection, and '-itic' means pertaining to, so diphtheritic describes something related to that infection.

Visually Confused Words