Definition

A medical condition where the pharynx, located at the back of the throat, becomes swollen and inflamed, often causing a sore throat.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with pharyngitis after she complained of a sore throat and difficulty swallowing.

Conversation

I heard you were feeling sick lately, what’s going on?

Yeah, I think I have pharyngitis or something like that.

That sounds uncomfortable; have you seen a doctor yet?

Not yet, but I should probably get it checked out soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pharyngitis is formed from "pharynx" (from Greek "pharynx", meaning throat) and "itis" (from Greek "itis", meaning inflammation). The word refers to the inflammation of the throat.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pharynx' as the throat and 'itis' as inflammation — so pharyngitis means inflammation of the throat.

Visually Confused Words