Definition

A condition characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with stomatitis after she complained of pain and swelling in her mouth.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of stomatitis?

I think I've seen it mentioned, but I'm not sure what it is.

It's basically inflammation of the mucous tissue in the mouth.

Oh, that sounds uncomfortable! I hope I never get that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stomatitis is formed from "stoma" (from Greek "στόμα", meaning mouth) and "-itis" (from Greek "itis", meaning inflammation). The word refers to the inflammation of the mouth.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stoma' meaning mouth and '-itis' indicating inflammation — so stomatitis is the inflammation of the mouth.

Visually Confused Words