Definition

A highly contagious bacterial infection that causes severe coughing fits, often referred to as whooping cough.

Example

The doctor diagnosed the child with pertussis after observing the characteristic cough.

Conversation

Have you heard about the rise in pertussis cases lately?

Yeah, I read something about it; it's pretty concerning.

I didn't realize it was making a comeback like that.

I know, right? It's important to stay updated on vaccinations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pertussis is derived from the Latin "per-" (meaning through) and "tussis" (meaning cough). The term refers to a severe cough that is characteristic of the disease, indicating a cough that goes through or persists.

Memory Tip

Think of a cough that goes 'through' ('per-') and is very intense ('tussis') — that's why pertussis refers to a severe cough.

Visually Confused Words