Definition

A medical term for severe itching, usually affecting the skin without any visible damage.

Example

The patient complained of pruritus that made it difficult for him to sleep at night.

Conversation

I've been dealing with this awful pruritus lately.

Oh no! That sounds really uncomfortable.

Yeah, it's just this constant itching that won't go away.

You should see a doctor; they might have something to help.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pruritus is derived from the Latin word "prurire" (meaning to itch). The suffix "-itus" is often used in medical terminology to denote a condition or disease. Therefore, pruritus refers to the condition of having an itch.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for itching, 'prurire', to remember that pruritus means the condition of having an itch.

Visually Confused Words