Definition

A medical condition characterized by an increase in body temperature, often indicating illness or infection.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with pyrexia after she reported feeling hot and having chills.

Conversation

I heard you were feeling sick lately.

Yeah, I had a bit of a pyrexia last night.

That sounds rough! Did you manage to see a doctor?

Not yet, but I think I should if the pyrexia doesn't go away soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pyrexia is derived from the Greek word "pyrexia" (πυρεξία), which comes from "pur" (πῦρ, meaning fire) and the suffix "-ia" (indicating a condition or state). The term refers to a condition characterized by fever or elevated body temperature, literally meaning a state of fire in the body.

Memory Tip

Imagine a body that feels like it's on 'fire' ('pur') when someone has a fever — that's what pyrexia means.

Visually Confused Words