Definition

A medical condition where a person's blood pressure is lower than normal, which can cause symptoms like dizziness or fainting.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with hypotension after she complained of feeling lightheaded.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of hypotension?

Yeah, isn't that when your blood pressure is really low?

Exactly! I read that it can make you feel dizzy sometimes.

That sounds tough; I hope I never have to deal with hypotension.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hypotension → It is formed from "hypo-" (meaning under or below) and "tensio" (from Latin "tensio", meaning tension or pressure). The word refers to a condition of having lower than normal blood pressure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hypo-' meaning 'under' and 'tension' referring to pressure — hypotension is when the pressure is under normal levels.

Visually Confused Words