Definition

A medical condition where there is too much fluid in the brain's ventricles, leading to an enlarged head and possible brain damage.

Example

The doctor diagnosed the baby with hydrocephalus after noticing the unusual size of the head.

Conversation

Did you hear about the condition called hydrocephalus?

Yeah, I read something about it; isn't it related to fluid buildup in the brain?

Exactly! It can really affect a person's development and health.

That sounds serious; I hope there are effective treatments available.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hydrocephalus → It is formed from "hydro-" (from Greek "hydor", meaning water) and "cephalus" (from Greek "kephalē", meaning head). The word describes a condition characterized by an accumulation of water in the head, leading to an enlarged skull.

Memory Tip

Imagine water ('hydro-') building up in the head ('cephalus') — that's why hydrocephalus refers to the condition of having excess fluid in the head.

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