Definition

Relating to the study of diseases or to behaviors that are extreme and often harmful, such as lying or other compulsive actions.

Example

His pathological need to lie made it difficult for anyone to trust him.

Conversation

Have you ever met someone who is a pathological liar?

Yeah, it’s surprising how often they can twist the truth.

It really makes you question everything they say.

Totally! It's tough to trust someone like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pathological → It is formed from "pathos" (from Greek, meaning suffering or disease) and "-logical" (from Greek "logia", meaning study or discourse). The word "pathological" refers to the study or discourse of suffering or disease, often in a medical context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pathos' as relating to suffering or disease, and '-logical' as the study of something. This helps you remember that 'pathological' relates to the study of diseases.

Visually Confused Words