Definition

This term refers to a condition where there is an unusually high amount of fat in the stool, often indicating a problem with fat absorption in the body.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with steatorrhoea after she reported oily stools.

Conversation

I heard that steatorrhoea can be a sign of digestive issues.

Yeah, it usually means there's too much fat in the stool, right?

Exactly! I hope it's not something serious if someone has steatorrhoea.

Me too! It's definitely worth checking out with a doctor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Steatorrhoea is formed from "steato-" (from Greek "steatos", meaning fat) and "rhoea" (from Greek "rhoe", meaning flow or discharge). The word describes a condition characterized by the flow or discharge of fat in the stool.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fat' ('steato-') flowing or discharging ('rhoea') — that's what steatorrhoea means.

Visually Confused Words