Definition

The field of study that focuses on how diseases spread, their causes, and how to control them in groups of people.

Example

Epidemiology helps us understand how diseases affect different populations.

Conversation

I just started reading a book about epidemiology and it's fascinating.

That sounds interesting! What does it cover?

It explains how diseases spread and how we can control them using epidemiology.

Wow, I never thought about it that way; it seems really important for public health.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Epidemiology → It is formed from "epi-" (meaning upon or over), "demos" (meaning people), and "logia" (meaning study). The word refers to the study of what is upon or affecting the people, particularly in relation to health and disease.

Memory Tip

Think of studying what is affecting the 'people' ('demos') and how it is 'upon' them ('epi-'). This helps you remember that epidemiology is the study of diseases in populations.

Visually Confused Words