Definition

A condition where the lining of a joint becomes inflamed, often causing pain and swelling.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with synovitis after she complained of joint pain.

Conversation

I heard you’ve been dealing with some pain in your knee lately.

Yeah, it turns out I have synovitis.

Oh no! What does that mean exactly?

It's just inflammation of the membrane around the joint, but it can be really uncomfortable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Synovitis is formed from "synovium" (from Latin *synovium*, meaning the membrane that secretes synovial fluid) and "-itis" (from Greek *itis*, meaning inflammation). The term refers to the inflammation of the synovial membrane, which is crucial for joint lubrication.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'synovium' as the membrane that helps your joints move smoothly, and when it gets inflamed ('-itis'), that's what synovitis means.

Visually Confused Words