Definition

A medical condition characterized by swelling and inflammation of the epididymis, which is a tube located at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm.

Example

The doctor diagnosed him with epididymitis after he reported pain and swelling in his groin area.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of epididymitis?

No, what is that?

It's an inflammation of the epididymis, usually caused by an infection.

Wow, I didn't know that could happen!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Epididymitis → It is formed from "epi-" (meaning upon or over), "didymis" (from Greek "didymos", meaning twin or testicle), and "-itis" (meaning inflammation). The word refers to the inflammation of the epididymis, which is the structure located upon the testicle.

Memory Tip

Think of 'epi-' meaning 'upon' and 'didymis' referring to 'testicle' — so epididymitis is the inflammation that occurs upon the testicle.

Visually Confused Words